Concrete Paving Blocks Research Articles

Potential application of by-products from the construction industry and waste from coconuts for concrete road paving blocks: physical and mechanical properties

ABSTRACT This paper analyzes concrete paving blocks (CPB) with mixed recycled aggregates from construction and demolition waste (CDW) as by-products and coconut fibres (CF) as waste, a novelty of these types of blocks, through physical and mechanical characterisation. Then, eighteen mixtures were used to produce rectangular CPB 20 cm × 10 cm × 8 cm (length × width × thickness): three without CDW and CF (with natural aggregate), six with CDW materials (3 replacing natural aggregate by weight in 50%, and other 3 in 75%), three with CF (adding a percentage of 0.1% by concrete weight), and six with CDW materials and CF. Tests, such as visual inspection, water absorption, voids, and compressive strength at 7 and 28 days, were done for blocks CPB with three water/cement ratios of 0.63, 0.73, and 0.83. The results showed that the mixes with different uses of CDW and CF behave better than the equivalent reference mixtures. Then, the study supports the CPB with CDW materials and CF can be used on light motorised trafficked road pavements.

Assessment of the possibility of using waste aggregate dust for the production of vibro-pressed concrete paving blocks

Significant amounts of rock dust with a grain size similar to cement are generated during aggregate dedusting in the production of mineral-asphalt masses. These wastes are collected in tanks or silos and must be managed in such a way as not to generate costs related to disposal. On the other hand, the use of natural resources must be reduced in the production of cement composites. The objective of this research is to investigate the possibility of utilising aggregate dedusting waste (ADW) in vibro-pressed concrete paving blocks (VPCPB). Stage one of this research includes testing the compressive strength of concrete samples where cement was partially replaced by ADW or/and fly ash (FA). Stage two discusses the effect of cement replacement by ADW or FA on the splitting tensile strength of VPCPB. Using ADW in VPCPB is a promising option. Splitting tensile strength increased after both 7 and 28 days when ADW was used.

Accelerated carbonation of alkali-activated vibro-compacted pervious concrete paving blocks

This study explores the use of an accelerated carbonation curing method to enhance the performance of non-structural precast alkali-activated fly ash pervious concrete paving blocks. Using a predefined production process, pervious paving blocks measuring 200 mm × 100 mm × 60 mm were manufactured and subjected to a 3-stage curing process. The blocks were produced with a dry consistence to allow for vibrocompaction, closely mirroring the manufacturing techniques used in the precast industry and enabling immediate demoulding. Initially, all blocks underwent thermal curing at 70 °C for 24 hours, followed by storage in a climatic chamber (20 ± 3 °C, 65 ± 10 % relative humidity) for 7–14 days. Finally, they were exposed to a carbonation chamber with 5 % CO2 at 23 ± 2 °C, and 60 ± 10 % RH for up to 7 days. Blocks cured without carbonation served as control specimens. All blocks were tested following the European standard EN 1338, which governs the conformity of conventional concrete pavement blocks. Additional properties such as water permeability and water stability were also assessed. The results demonstrated that the accelerated carbonation curing significantly improved the performance of the blocks. Increases of 30 % and 60 % in compressive and splitting tensile strengths, respectively, were reported for the 7-day CO2-cured blocks when compared to their control counterparts. The 7-day carbon-cured blocks showed significantly improved abrasion resistance, with mass loss due to abrasion decreasing from 8.2 % to 5.6 % with 7 days of CO2 exposure. Additionally, microstructural enhancements were observed for the carbonated specimens, positively impacting their overall performance and making them compliant with the standard for practical paving block applications. However, further research is recommended to explore automation in the production process to ensure consistent results and facilitate future standardisation and certification of these blocks.

Digitalization of Analysis of a Concrete Block Layer Using Machine Learning as a Sustainable Approach

The concrete block pavement (CBP) system has a surface layer consisting of concrete block pavers and joint sand over a bedding sand layer. The non-homogeneous nature of the surface course of CBP, along with different laying patterns and shapes of block pavers, makes the analysis of CBP cumbersome. In this study, the surface course of CBP was modeled based on the slab action of the block pavers and joint sand, which are connected together in full contact. Four different laying patterns, including herringbone, stretcher, parquet, and square, were modeled using a finite element model. The elastic moduli of the block pavers varied from 2500 MPa to 45,000 MPa, with thicknesses ranging from 60 mm to 120 mm. As a result, modeling of CBP based on slab action can be considered a realistic strategy. In addition, a dataset was created based on quantitative inputs, e.g., elastic modulus and thickness of the block pavers, and qualitative input, i.e., block laying patterns. The approaches of machine learning adopted were support vector regression, Gaussian process regression, single-layer and deep artificial neural networks, and least squares boosting to implement prediction approach based on input and output. The analyses of statistical accuracy of all five machine learning methods showed high accuracy; however, the Gaussian process and deep artificial neural network methods resulted in the most accurate outputs and are recommended for further studies. Based on the machine learning models, digitalization is achieved through the development of simple, user-friendly software for electronic devices in order to perform a preliminary analysis of different laying patterns of CBP. Such a platform may result in less laboratory work and boosts the level of sustainability in concrete block pavement technology.

Ceramic waste powder as a cement replacement in concrete paving blocks: mechanical properties and environmental assessment

ABSTRACT In the quest for eco-friendly alternatives to ordinary Portland cement, a material extensively used in the manufacture of concrete paving blocks, this study explores the potential of ceramic waste powder. Towards this, a parametric investigation is conducted into the effects of substituting cement with ceramic waste powder on the mechanical properties and durability performance of mass-produced pressed concrete blocks. The findings reveal that the incorporation of ceramic waste powder as a partial cement replacement can markedly enhance the strength and durability of the paving blocks. Specifically, mixtures, containing 20% and 30% ceramic waste powder, demonstrated an increase in compressive and tensile strength by 30% and 19%, respectively, compared to their control counterparts. In addition, the modified blocks exhibited a decrease in water absorption and weight loss after undergoing freezing and thawing cycles by 8% and 40%, respectively. A life cycle assessment corroborates the environmental viability of ceramic waste powder as a cement substitute, indicating reductions across all environmental impact categories, with notable improvements. This research paves the way for more sustainable solutions in pedestrian pavement construction, underscoring the potential of ceramic waste powder as a significant contributor to global sustainability efforts in the construction industry.

Resistance of some outdoor pavements to destructive combined effects in cold regions

ABSTRACT This study aims to investigate some physical and mechanical properties and resistance to triple-combined effect (abrasion, freeze-thaw and de-icing salt) of Interlocking concrete block pavement (ICBP), concrete cube pavement (CCP), concrete kerb (CK) and natural basalt stone pavement (BSP) products. The pavement products were supplied in different types/varieties from manufacturers in Erzurum-Turkey. The Bohme abrasion test was performed at the end of every 5 cycles with NaCl solution freeze-thaw cycles in addition to the physical and mechanical tests, which are important in applications. As a result, while the BSP and CK concrete pavements completed a total of 60 cycles without disintegrating with the least mass loss against the triple-combined effect, the concrete cube pavement-colourless (CCP-C) product disintegrated in the shortest time. It was determined that there can be significant differences in the mechanical and durability properties of the same type of ICBP products from different manufacturers. It was seen that the use of iron oxide-based pigments and colour type positively affect the mechanical and durability properties of Dry-cast Concrete (DCC) pavements. Additionally, it was determined that there are strong positive relationships between the durability performance of pavements and their compressive strength and Schmidt values, and negative relationships with their porosity.

Study on Utilization of LDPE Waste Plastic for Manufacturing the Paver Blocks

Abstract: The aim of this project is to replace cement with plastic waste in paver block and to reduce the cost of paver block when compared to that of convention concrete paver blocks. At present nearly 63 millions tones of plastic waste is produced in India per year. The degradation rate of plastic waste is also a very slow process. Hence the project is helpful in reducing plastic waste in a useful way. In this project we have used plastic waste in different proportions with quarry dust, coarseaggregate and ceramic waste. The paver blocks were prepared and tested and the results were discussed.

Development of sustainable interlocking concrete paving blocks using bamboo leaf ash and metakaolin

Eco-friendly interlocking concrete pavement block was developed using the admixture of bamboo leaf ash and metakaolin. This was done to develop an eco-friendly interlocking paving block for sustainable pavement construction. Bamboo leaf ash and metakaolin were added as a supplementary cementitious material. The supplementary cementitious material (bamboo leaf ash and metakaolin) were admixed and added at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 % replacement of cement. The workability of the fresh concrete (slump) at the varied percentage additions, and the mechanical properties of the concrete at 7, 14, 28, and 56 days of curing were assessed, including their microstructural characteristics. The outcome of the research showed that increasing the percentage of (bamboo leaf ash + metakaolin) reduces the workability of the concrete. With a 20 % addition of this cementitious material, the developed fresh concrete became unworkable. In addition, replacing up to 10 % of the concrete in the pavement with bamboo leaf ash and metakaolin increased the mechanical strength of the concrete by 28.7 %. At 30 % a percentage increase of 3.6 % was recorded. However, the strength at 5 % was still adequate for pavement construction with a 13.62 % increase in mechanical strength. The compressive strength at 5 % and 10 % addition of the supplementary cementitious material at maturity met the criteria for constructing a semi-rigid pavement, using IRC standards. The microstructural assessment showed that the number of pores in the mature concrete samples decreased at 10 % addition of bamboo leaf ash and metakaolin. The research data provides construction workers, researchers, and highway engineers with vital information regarding the viability of these sustainable materials for pavement improvement.

An Experimental Investigation Use of Waste Plastic and Waste Glass Together as Coarse Aggregate in Paver Block

Waste has become a major problem these days. Glass and plastic are found in municipal solid waste (MSW), and are of the most used daily materials. The amount of glass and plastics consumed annually has been growing steadily. Its low density, strength, user- friendly design, fabrication capabilities, long life, lightweight, and low cost are the factors behind such phenomenal growth. As waste plastic and waste glass is non-biodegradable material it blocks drains, pollutes rivers and streams have on the environment. This project focus on partially replacement of waste plastic and waste glass together as coarse aggregate in concrete paver block. To evaluate the effects of including these wastes, mechanical test like compressive strength test is conducted. The aim of the project is to recycle the waste plastic and waste glass into a paver block and to reduce the cost of paver block. This can serve as environmental friendly.

Utjecaj letećeg pepela i vlakana banane na mehaničke karakteristike betonskih opločnika

The use of concrete reinforced with natural fibres is globally considered a sustainable approach to infrastructure development. This study investigated the salient features of concrete paver blocks fabricated using fly ash, coal ash, superplasticiser, and banana fibres as fibre reinforcements. Banana fibres (15 mm in length) were prepared, followed by the fabrication and characterisation of concrete paver blocks. In the current study, banana fibre (0.5 %, 1 %, 1.5 %, 2 %, and 2.5 %) and admixture (0.5 % constantly) were used in different mix proportions in the fabrication of paver block to analyse the physicomechanical properties. The results demonstrated that the paver blocks containing 2 % modified banana fiber (with respect to weight of fly ash) show higher compressive strength (7.45 % for I-dumble and 17.12 % for zigzag paver blocks), flexural strength (14.99 % for I-dumble and 8.67 % for zigzag) and split tensile strength (12.182 % for I-dumble and 9.971 % for zigzag paver blocks), compared to other mix proportions. The use of modified banana fibres as reinforcement was found to be very effective in improving the mechanical properties and life span of paver blocks, which may lead to minimizing the preparation.

Optimizing Concrete Paver Block Production: A Linear Programming Approach for Enhanced Profitability in the Construction Industry

As an operational optimization (maximization or minimization) methodology, linear programming (L.P.) in operation research has proven successful in several areas by offering logical outcomes to challenging issues, including resource constraints. The study aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical applications of L.P. and the practical needs of the construction industry, specifically focusing on determining the optimal production quantities of 60 mm and 40 mm concrete paver blocks for Janta Udhog Pvt. Ltd. as a case study to achieve maximum profitability, offering essential new insights into how L.P. may successfully handle the complex problems encountered by businesses in this industry. An interview with the owner of Janta Udhog Pvt. Ltd. was conducted to obtain the primary data for the study. Secondary data such as sale records, monthly demand of each product, and inventory records were also obtained to formulate a linear programming model. The model was then solved using the LINGO software. This research underscores the optimal production recommendations for Janta Udhog Pvt. Ltd., advising the manufacture of 566.67 units of the 60 mm block and 350 units of the 40 mm block, leading to a maximum daily profit of NPR 2966.67. By applying linear programming techniques, these findings contribute to a more informed and strategic decision-making approach in the construction sector. The study illuminates the benefits of utilizing linear programming in challenging situations, providing valuable insights for academics, business owners, and decision-makers.

Utilization of Aluminosilicate Industrial Wastes as Precursors in CO2-Cured Alkali-Activated Precast Concrete Pavement Blocks

This research focuses on the utilization of recently investigated aluminosilicate industrial wastes as precursors to produce non-structural precast alkali-activated concrete pavement blocks. For this purpose, conventional blocks (200 mm × 100 mm × 80 mm) were produced using electric arc furnace slag and municipal solid waste incineration bottom ashes as the sole binders. Portland cement and fly ash blocks were produced as references. The blocks underwent a curing regimen comprising thermal, dry, and carbonation curing stages. Control uncarbonated specimens were subjected to dry curing instead of CO2-based curing to evaluate the influence of carbonation on the blocks’ strength development. The specimens were subsequently examined following EN 1338, which is the European standard for assessing and ensuring the conformity of conventional concrete pavement blocks. The carbonated blocks revealed improved mechanical and physical properties in relation to the uncarbonated ones. All blocks met standard dimensions, showed minimal skid potential (most indicating extremely low potential for slip for reporting unpolished slip resistance values exceeding 75), and had enhanced abrasion resistance due to carbonation, showing 30% and 11% less volume loss due to abrasion for fly ash and bottom ash, respectively. Carbonated blocks performed better than non-carbonated ones, displaying lower water absorption (0.58% and 0.23% less water absorption for bottom ash and slag, respectively) and higher thermal conductivity (20%, 13%, and 8% increase in values for fly ash, slag, and bottom ash, respectively). These results confirm the effectiveness of the accelerated carbonation curing technique in improving the block’s performance. Despite the promising outcomes, further optimization of the alkaline solution and carbonation curing conditions is recommended for future research.

Design and Construction Aspects of Concrete Block Paved Vertical Traffic-Calming Devices Located in Home Zone Areas

In recent years, speed reduction measures have been increasingly used, especially in heavily urbanised areas. If local conditions allow, traffic-calming schemes are implemented, which include a variety of traffic-calming measures (TCM). Some of the most common traffic-calming measures are concrete block paved vertical traffic-calming devices (VTCDs), including speed tables, speed humps, speed bumps and raised pedestrian crossings. Different design and construction recommendations apply to the respective VTCD types. The aim of this article is to examine the effectiveness of VTCDs in speed reduction and the impact of horizontal forces on pavement conditions, both within and beyond VTCDs, after over a dozen years of exposure to traffic. For this purpose, speed surveys were carried out on selected two-way streets running through home zones in Poland. The pavements on selected VTCDs were identified and visually assessed for damage, and subsidence areas were estimated using the terrestrial laser scanning (TSL) technique. The analysis resulted in the development of the Deviation Model 3D (DM3D), showing local deviations from the theoretical surface, obtained by superimposing the two models, the Real Surface Digital Terrain Model (RS DTM) and the Theoretical Surface Digital Terrain Model (TS DTM). A comparative analysis of the pavement surface condition and the magnitudes of horizontal forces allowed us to identify the locations of critical spots in VTCDs. The results were used as the basis for developing recommended pavement structures and deriving engineering recommendations for concrete block paving in VTCDs.

Development Of Paving Block Pave Structure Based On Type Of Pattern In Light Traffic For Traffic Safety And Comfort

Factors that cause accidents include traffic characteristics and road infrastructure, environmental conditions, vehicle design and specifications, and human factors. The object of this study is road infrastructure, namely the road structure at traffic light stops points because the accident hazard at crossroads is a determinant of traffic safety and driving comfort. In Coastal Area/Upstream Area, To overcome road infrastructure problems at traffic light points which are the cause of traffic safety and driving comfort, the design of Concrete block pavement is one of the solutions to overcome these problems. Concrete block pavement is often used for the construction of sidewalks, bicycle paths, residential driveways, parking lots, industrial areas as well as harbors and airports and other permeable areas. Concrete block pavement is used in Europe in extreme weather. Specially designed concrete block pavement innovations can withstand heavy static traffic loads such as rigid pavements, and these can be readjusted easily if a change in pavement layout is required. The method used in this study uses pure experimentation with the parameters of the variation of the pattern, the variation of the type, and the variation of the dimensions. This research uses the Autocad, PLAXIS and SAP2000 programs. This program finds moments and deformations that occur in the modeled paving blocks as well as soil deflections that occur due to deformation loads in various shapes (brick). The results obtained from the analysis of previous research show that there is the most optimum shape among the brick paving block shapes with a thickness of 6, 8 and 10 cm. The way to determine it is to make a paving block preparation simulation with the SketchUp, PLAXIS and SAP2000 programs. From the program calculations, the interlocking aspects, land subsidence and deformation aspects are produced.

Analysis of the manufacturing of concrete paving blocks with by-products from thermoelectric power plant

The key factor in constructing urban roads applying interlocking concrete block pavement (ICBP) is to employ an appropriate design method for better effectiveness. Concrete paving blocks (CPB) can also be manufactured using industrial by-products. Then, this paper aims to analyze CPB with coal bottom ash (CBA) from a Thermoelectric Power Plant through mechanical characterization and design methods for ICBP. To this end, tests, such as void index, water absorption, compressive strength, and elasticity modulus, were done on CPB for each mixture. Furthermore, empirical and mechanistic-empirical design methods for ICBP were applied. Then, four dry concrete mixtures (two with CBA and two without CBA) were designed with two water/cement ratios (0.63 and 0.73) to produce rectangular CPB measuring 20 cm × 10 cm × 8 cm (length × width × thickness) by a vibro-press machine. Furthermore, ICBP sections were designed, applying six simulations from empirical and mechanistic-empirical design methods. The results showed that the mixtures A73 and B73 with more water, i.e., water/cement ratio of 0.73, presented higher characteristic compressive strength at 28 days (25.34 MPa and 15.88 MPa, respectively) than the other mixes A63 and B63 with less water, i.e., water/cement ratio of 0.63 (these two mixes showed 15.85 MPa). Furthermore, the CPB application for bike paths or parking areas was allowed according to the Australian specification of 15 MPa for compressive strength test. Also, all ICBP sections from the mechanistic-empirical design required approximately 24.9% fewer materials for the sub-base layer than the empirical process. Finally, the CPB application is possible for areas with light traffic, and the ICBP technology was more feasible with the mechanistic-empirical design method.

Sustainable road paving: Enhancing concrete paver blocks with zeolite-enhanced cement

Abstract The present investigation assesses the impact of zeolite-enhanced sustainable cement (ZESC), a product achieved through the blending and grinding of clinker, gypsum, and varying percentages of natural zeolite (6, 10, and 15%). While the existing research has mainly concentrated on substituting ordinary Portland Cement with natural or synthetic zeolite, a critical research gap persists in using this manufactured cement in nontraditional building materials. Addressing this gap, our investigation assesses the durability and mechanical properties of concrete paver blocks manufactured by ZESC, particularly crucial for road paving applications. Comprehensive evaluations of hardened properties were conducted, including compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and water absorption. In addition, the impact of ZESC on the fresh properties of concrete paver blocks was examined. The findings reveal that a 15% N.Z. inclusion in ZESC production results in an optimal mix design, leading to a remarkable increase in compressive strength and splitting tensile strength by 24 and 25%, respectively. It reduces water absorption and abrasion resistance by 80 and 7.8%, respectively, compared to O.P.C. cement concrete paver blocks. It is noteworthy that the addition of natural zeolite to ZESC mixtures led to an increased water demand. Notably, the integration of natural zeolite significantly reduces the environmental impact of cement production, promoting a sustainable shift by minimizing cement clinker. The study employs microstructural analysis, supported by scanning electron microscopic images, revealing a significant reduction in microcracks and enhanced cohesiveness, particularly at the aggregate-cemented paste interface in ZESC mixes.

Impact of paving surface material on thermal conditions within a residential building

This paper presents the impact of paving surface material on thermal comfort in a residential building. The aim of the study was to demonstrate differences in temperature, measured near a building’s walls, depending on their location (relative to the cardinal directions) and the type of paving surface material outside the building (in its immediate vicinity, considering the cardinal directions). The study found differences in temperature values recorded near walls located on the south-west side, which faced a garden and a grassy surface, compared to the temperature of the walls that faced a street with asphalt and concrete paving blocks. It should be noted that the study was carried out in the summer, when the interior of the building was not heated. The facade of the building had not been additionally insulated and retained its original historical form (facade render). The method used in the study consisted of temperature measurements taken near the building’s walls using a Steinberg System weather station’s sensors. The measurement results supported the hypothesis that wall temperature varies depending on a space’s placement relative to the cardinal directions and the surface paving material in the space adjoining the building. The results of the study are presented using line graphs. The study is of scientific value and the results may also be useful in site development planning practice. The thermal conditions are a major factor that affecting the comfort of various types of buildings, including housing.

Design of Concrete Block Paving in Home Zone Traffic Circle Areas

Contemporary street space upgrade or regeneration projects tend to include setting up home zones that are located in large city suburbs, smaller towns or spas. These home zones feature one-way streets, merging of a pavement and carriageway into one level surface and various traffic calming measures (TCM), including speed tables and traffic circles (TC). Concrete paving blocks are the preferred surfacing material. As part of this study, traffic surveys were carried out in a small seaside spa in Poland to determine the accelerations and decelerations of vehicles passing through four traffic circles that have different central island heights and different streetscape characteristics. A visual assessment of the pavement condition was also carried out. The pavement deformation changes were analysed using 3D models derived on the basis of the terrestrial laser scanning data obtained with the Trimble SX10 scanning total station. The existing pavement structure was analysed as part of this study. Next, the areas that require strengthening were identified based on subsidence and horizontal forces analyses, with the latter calculated from the observed decelerations and accelerations of the passing vehicles. Finally, design guidelines are given for concrete block surfacing in high traffic impact locations.

Utilization of wollastonite, jarosite, and their blends for the sustainable development of concrete paver block mixes containing reclaimed asphalt pavement aggregates.

While several research studies considered the utilization of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) aggregates for asphalt and concrete pavements, very few attempted its possible utilization for precast concrete applications like concrete paver blocks (CPBs). Moreover, few attempts made in the recent past to improve the strength properties of RAP inclusive concrete mixes by incorporating certain supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) have reported an insignificant or marginal effect. The present study attempts to comprehensively investigate the utilization potential of some locally and abundantly available materials having suitable physicochemical properties to improve the performance of a zero-slump CPB mix containing 50% RAP aggregates. The studied filler materials, namely, wollastonite (naturally occurring calcium metasilicate mineral) and jarosite (hazardous zinc industry waste), were used to replace 5-15% and 10-20% by volume of Portland cement in the 50% RAP CPB mix. Apart from their individual effects, the efficacy of wollastonite-jarosite blends was also investigated. Considering the lack of indoor storage facilities and economic aspects of CPBs, the influence of water spray curing regime on the performance of the RAP CPB mixes was studied and compared to that of continuous water curing regime. Inclusion of the considered fillers was found to statistically and significantly enhance the flexural strength, tensile splitting strength, and abrasion resistance of the 50% RAP CPB mix; however, the compressive strength (in most cases), permeable voids, water absorption, and water permeability properties showed an insignificant improvement. Results of thermogravimetric analysis confirmed the occurrence of pozzolanic reactivity, and microstructure analysis revealed improvements in packing of concrete matrix and ITZ with filler inclusion qualitatively substantiating the improvements in strength and durability characteristics. The toxicity characteristics of heavy metals that may leach from the hazardous jarosite-based RAP CPB mixes were found to be within permissible limits. Based on the performance requirements specified by IS, IRC, and ASTM standards, all the RAP CPB mixes with filler inclusions fulfilled the acceptance criteria for heavy traffic applications, and water spray curing can enact as an alternate method for curing these mixes. However, to avail maximum performance benefits, it is recommended to use 5% wollastonite, 15% jarosite, and a combination of 10% wollastonite and 10% jarosite as a Portland cement substitute to produce sustainable eco-friendly RAP CPB mixes.

Effect of Recycled PET Particles as Aggregate on the Mechanical Strength of Concrete Pavement Blocks (CPBs)

Effect of Recycled PET Particles as Aggregate on the Mechanical Strength of Concrete Pavement Blocks (CPBs)