The flexural capacity of reinforced concrete beams using crushed ceramic tiling waste aggregate replacement

Abstract

The production of concrete, whether in ready mix form, precasting or concrete block manufactming, consumes large amounts of raw materials and energy. Locally, aggregate for concrete mixes is generally produced using quarried Upper Coralline Limestone. This situation results in a loss of large amounts of land due to quarrying and also degradation of the environment. The aim of this dissertation, therefore, is to analyse the flexural capacity of reinforced concrete beams using crushed ceramic tiling waste as a replacement for the Upper Coralline Limestone aggregate. The proposed research methodology consists of producing reinforced concrete beams by using difterent proportions of crushed ceramic tiles and crnshed Upper Coralline Limestone aggregate based upon previous studies. The dissertation will also explore the use of optimal design mixes employing crushed 'Gres' ceramic tiles in combination and as a replacement to local Upper Coralline Limestone aggregate. This study shows that the use of Gres ceramic waste in concrete mixes does not necessarily ensure that concrete strnctures would register and increase in Flexural capacity. Pending more studies on the use of ceramic aggregate replacement for high strength concretes, the results of the current study clearly show that r.oncrete mixes with ceramic replacement are effective in low strength concrete mixes. Thus, the use of Gres ceramic waste may be utilised in the construction industry for structures that do not require high compressive concrete grades.