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Effect of para-wood ash and calcium carbonate on the properties of eco-friendly self-compacting mortar reinforced with electronic waste fibers
Author(s)
Date Issued
October 15, 2024
Type
Article
Abstract
This paper deals with reducing CO2 emissions from cement production and finding alternative uses for electronic waste (E-waste) fibers in some innovative applications in self-compacting mortar (SCM). In the present research, an attempt has been made to establish the optimum incorporation of E-waste fiber into SCM by varying the fiber content from 5 % to 25 %, combined with para-wood ash and calcium carbonate as supplementary cementitious materials. In this laboratory study, the mix design had a constant water-to-powder ratio of 0.35 and a cement content of 550 kg/m³. Additionally, 20 % of the cement volume was replaced by 10 % para-wood ash and 10 % calcium carbonate. The results indicated a continuous increase of the mini-slump values from 255 mm for the control mix to 270 mm for the mix with the highest fiber content. Mini V-funnel flow times increased from 3.63 to 8.83 s as the fiber content increased. Lower fiber contents of 5 % improved compressive strength because they had a reinforcing role in the matrix of SCM besides the microcrack-bridging role. Higher contents of 10–25 % decreased the strength due to the clustering of fibers and resulting voids. SEM analysis at 28 days showed increased voids with higher percentages of E-waste fibers and para-wood ash alone. The results underline that optimizing fiber content is critical in balancing workability and mechanical properties, and 5 % e-waste fiber content can be considered optimal for enhancing the performance of SCM. This work also creates part of sustainable construction practice with the green solution required to reduce CO2 emissions and work accumulation against E-waste.
Citation
Journal of Building Engineering, 95, 2024