Multi-criteria decision analysis for optimum selection of different construction bricks

Abstract

Theis research aims to analyse a solar dryer based geopolymer bricks and compare it with other types of bricks available in the market. In recent days, some research studies are carried out related to construction bricks, apart from solar dried geopolymer bricks, which are sustainable construction materials. In this study, we analysed and compared the qualities of burnt clay bricks, concrete bricks, hollow blocks, bio-bricks, and geopolymer bricks. Multi-criteria analysis is utilised with the results obtained through the compressive test, water absorption test, thermal conductivity test, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis, cost comparison, and VIKOR's matrix test data. To evaluate the experimental and analytical data and to select the best brick for the decision-makers, the ranking system developed by VlseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) is used in this investigation. This study also compares the test results of brick used in general construction with geopolymer solar-dried brick, which performs better than clay bricks, cement bricks, Bio-bricks, and Eco-friendly bricks. Results concluded that the eco-friendly cement bricks have good strength, shape and texture and 16% water absorption. Cement bricks are the most ecologically friendly and found as a sustainable product since they are available at the lowest embodied energy of 1.49 MJ/kg and emit the lowest embodied greenhouse gas of 0.162 kg of CO2 when compared to conventional bricks.