Sustainable utilisation of limestone waste : prefabricated wall

Abstract

The presented study investigates the durability of prefabricated walls constructed from recycled limestone, focusing on factors influencing its performance. The research analyses the impact of compaction load and the inclusion of white cement on the structural integrity of prefabricated limestone walls. The study's objective is to optimize the construction process using limestone waste from the Maltese Islands, emphasizing sustainable practices. Experiments were conducted to refine the water/cement ratio, identifying a 16% water content as optimal for achieving maximum density and compressive strength. The effects of meticulous casting and curing processes were evaluated, with particular attention to layering and tamping techniques. The study also explores the material's resistance to environmental factors, including water absorption and salt crystallisation, compared to traditional Globigerina limestone. Results indicate that the optimised tamped limestone mix not only match but may surpass traditional materials in durability, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative for construction. The research suggests that further exploration into material composition and compaction methods is crucial for enhancing the performance of rammed limestone walls. Ultimately, this study contributes to the development of sustainable construction practices by utilising recycled materials.