Durability of eco-friendly blended cements incorporating ceramic waste from different sources

Abstract

Environmental conservation is mandatory for the sustainable development of the construction industry. A large amount of ceramic waste results from construction and demolition waste (C&DW). In addition, the extended service life of the structure is essential. This paper assesses the effectiveness of powder ceramic wastes (PCWs) from C&DW to improve the durable performance (chloride diffusion, sulfate resistance, and alkali–silica reaction) of blended cement (replacement 24% by mass). The suitability of blended cement is supported by the proven pozzolanicity (Frattini test, XRD, FTIR, and nonevaporable water content). Additionally, PCWs incorporation effect on the life cycle analysis of concrete is included. All samples containing ceramic waste show pozzolanic activity at 28 days, significantly reduce the apparent chloride diffusion coefficient, present good performance against the sulfate attack and reduce the expansion caused by ASR. In addition, PCWs reduce CO2 emissions. Results reveal a comparable performance of PCWs, indicating the unnecessary classification of them.