New applications of municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash (MSWIBA) and calcined clay in construction: Preparation and use of an eco-friendly artificial aggregate

Abstract

The aim of this study is to prepare MSWIBA as eco-friendly artificial aggregates (EFAAs) by cold bond granulation technique using a low carbon limestone calcined clay cement (LC3). The water absorption rate of EFAAs is between 14.42 and 21.82%, and the maximum compressive strength can reach 2.5 MPa. Calcined clay particles can effectively adsorb heavy metal ions after absorbing water, and EFAAs can reduce the leaching value of toxic elements in MSWIBA by more than half on average. Compared to standard OPC cementitious materials, LC3 composites only need 50% of the energy and discharge 43% of the CO2, producing a more environmentally friendly artificial aggregate. In addition, the 28-day compressive strength of concrete was higher than 30 MPa on average after applying EFAAs to concrete. The good application capability shown by EFAAs, as well as their low energy consumption and low carbon environmental characteristics, promote the better application of MSWIBA in buildings.