In the bustling world of construction and mining, a groundbreaking study led by Amir Detho from the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Built Environment at University Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) is turning heads. The research, published in the prestigious journal Scientific Reports (translated to English, this means ‘Scientific Reports’), explores an innovative way to transform industrial waste into a valuable resource for brick manufacturing, potentially revolutionizing the industry.
The study delves into the integration of industrial waste sludge into fired clay bricks, aiming to enhance their engineering properties while minimizing environmental impact. This isn’t just about creating stronger, more durable bricks; it’s about transforming waste into a resource that can be used to build our future. Detho and his team have shown that incorporating up to 30% of body mill sludge (BS) and polishing sludge (PS) into brick mixes can significantly boost physical and mechanical properties. This means reduced shrinkage, increased porosity, and improved compressive strength, reaching up to 25 N/mm². “We’re not just talking about making bricks; we’re talking about making better bricks with less environmental impact,” Detho explains.
The implications for the mining and construction industries are profound. As the demand for sustainable practices in both clay mineral extraction and brick production grows, this research offers a compelling solution. By utilizing industrial waste, companies can reduce their environmental footprints while potentially lowering production costs. The study’s findings indicate that bricks containing up to 30% BS and PS comply with stringent environmental standards set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPAV). This means these bricks are not only stronger but also safer for the environment and human health.
The research also highlights the potential for significant cost savings. By using waste materials as partial substitutes for clay soil, manufacturers can reduce their reliance on virgin materials, lowering extraction and processing costs. This cost-effectiveness aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting cleaner production practices in brick manufacturing.
The study’s findings on leachability and indoor air quality are equally promising. Various leachability assessments, including the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), Synthetic Precipitation Leaching Procedure (SPLP), and Static Leachate Test (SLT), confirm that these bricks are environmentally safe. Additionally, indoor air quality assessments show that these bricks meet Industry Codes of Practice on Indoor Air Quality (ICOP-IAQ) guidelines, making them suitable for a wide range of construction applications.
As the mining industry continues to extract clay from clay mines, the demand for sustainable practices in both clay mineral extraction and brick production is growing. This research could shape future developments in the field by providing a roadmap for integrating industrial waste into construction materials. “This is just the beginning,” Detho says. “We’re opening the door to a future where waste isn’t just a problem to be managed, but a resource to be harnessed.”
By embracing these innovative practices, the mining and construction industries can move towards a more sustainable future, reducing waste, lowering costs, and building a greener world. The potential for commercial impact is vast, and as more companies adopt these practices, we can expect to see a significant shift in how we approach waste management and construction materials.
