Partial Replacement of Sand in Mortar by Brick Dust and Saw Dust

Abstract

The use of sawdust and brick dust in partial replacement of sand in the mortar will reduce the dependency on the natural sand. Extracting of sand from rivers led to the ecological imbalance of aquatic life. The sand is an important part of the construction field as it is used in both motors as well as in concrete which is the backbone of construction. Day by day the construction is increasing rapidly so is the need for sand. So, it is necessary to find the replacement of sand. the sawdust and brick dust is a waste product of their respective industries, so it is feasible to use them as partial replacement of sand. In the present study, the mixture is taken as (1:3). The partial replacement of sand is done in three different percentages (10%,20%,30%). In the first mix, 10% of sand is replaced with 5% each of sawdust and brick dust. Similarly, in the next two mixes, 20% and 30% of sand are replaced. For all the mix strength tests, the abrasion test is carried out at 7, 14 and 28 days. Compressive strength increases to 20% and decreases afterwards. Higher compressive strength is at a 10% replacement of sand. The resistance to abrasion in partially replaced mixes in more than of conventional mortar. In all the mix, a 20% replacement of the sand shows higher resistance to the abrasion.