Effects of Wastewater Sludge Addition on Fired Clay Bricks: Enhancing Performance and Sustainable Construction Practices
Anju P Babu1, Sujin S2, Anoop S S3, Sooraj R Suresh4, S R Hareesh Nath5

1Anju P Babu, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, ACE College of Engineering Trivandrum, Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), India.

2Sujin S, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, ACE College of Engineering Trivandrum, Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), India.

3Anoop S S, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, ACE College of Engineering Trivandrum, Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), India.

4Sooraj R Suresh, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, ACE College of Engineering Trivandrum, Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), India.

5S R Hareesh Nath, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, ACE College of Engineering Trivandrum, Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), India.

Manuscript received on 25 October 2023 | Revised Manuscript received on 07 January 2024 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 January 2024 | Manuscript published on 30 January 2024 | PP: 1-5 | Volume-12 Issue-2, January 2024 | Retrieval Number: 100.1/ijese.B43231213223 | DOI: 10.35940/ijese.B4323.12020124

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Abstract: This study explores the impact of incorporating wastewater sludge into fired clay bricks to improve their performance and promote sustainable construction. Physical, mechanical, and environmental properties of the sludge-amended bricks are investigated to assess their suitability as an alternative construction material. Lab tests are conducted to characterize the sludge and clay, and brick samples with varying sludge content are produced. Physical properties such as water absorption, are analyzed to determine the influence of sludge addition on the bricks’ structural characteristics. Mechanical tests, including compressive and flexural strength evaluations, assess the performance of the sludge-amended bricks compared to traditional clay bricks. Additionally, environmental aspects are considered to evaluate the sustainability of the sludge-amended bricks. Life cycle assessment and carbon footprint analysis quantify the environmental benefits and drawbacks associated with their production and use. The findings of this study contribute to the knowledge of sustainable construction materials by exploring the potential utilization of wastewater sludge in fired clay brick production.

Keywords: Wastewater, Sustainability, Construction Materials, Sludge
Scope of the Article: Construction