A Comprehensive Review on the Performance of Low-Carbon Ceramic Waste Powder as Cement Replacement Material in Concrete
Source abstract
Abstract
Over 2 million tonnes of ceramic waste are generated annually in South Africa, with the majority disposed of in landfills, contributing to environmental degradation. Meanwhile, researchers are actively seeking sustainable alternatives to Portland cement (PC), which is associated with significant environmental challenges. Ceramic waste powder (CWP) refers to finely milled ceramic waste and powder derived from the polishing and finishing stages of ceramic production. This review examines the potential of CWP as a partial replacement for PC in concrete, focusing on its effects on workability, mechanical durability, and microstructural properties. The findings indicate that moderate replacement levels (up to 20%) enhance the compressive and flexural strengths of concrete. However, these benefits are not consistently reported across all studies. Additionally, CWP improves the microstructural properties of the concrete. This is probably due to the pozzolanic reactions of CWP, which result in a denser concrete matrix and enhanced long-term durability. Notable durability benefits include reduced water absorption, increased resistance to chemical attacks, and improved thermal insulation. However, the performance of concrete with higher CWP replacement levels (above 30%) remains unclear. Some studies have reported strength reductions and increased susceptibility to durability loss at this level. Further studies should focus on clarifying its pozzolanic reactivity, durability in aggressive environments, and optimum replacement percentage.
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Research context
OpenAlex topics: Recycled Aggregate Concrete Performance · Concrete and Cement Materials Research · Innovative concrete reinforcement materials
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Civil Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, Durban University of Technology, Midlands Campus, Pietermaritzburg 3201, South Africa
Department of Civil Engineering, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa
Funding
Durban University of Technology South Africa Research Scholarship and Future Professor program
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