Effects of sustainable alternative materials on physico-mechanical properties, thermal and durability of eco-friendly clay materials

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of organic lake sediments (OLS) on the performance and durability of eco-friendly fired clay materials (EFCM). OLS were incorporated into clay mixtures at different proportions (5-30spacewt.%), and the specimens were fired at a temperature of 1000space degrees C. The EFCM samples were evaluated in terms of their physical-mechanical properties, thermal conductivity and durability (freeze-thaw resistance). In addition, the microstructural and mineralogical characteristics of the EFCM were analysed, and CO2 emissions during the firing process were assessed. The results showed that the incorporation of OLS into EFCM increased the porosity and water absorption of the specimens, while simultaneously reducing bulk density and compressive strength. It was determined that OLS acts as a multifunctional natural eco-additive in the production of fired clay materials. When 30spacewt.% of OLS was added, the thermal conductivity of EFCM decreased by up to 46%, reaching 0.520spaceW/mK compared to the control samples (without OLS). The compressive strength of all tested specimens ranged from 12 to 26spaceMPa and met the minimum compressive strength requirement for bricks (>= 10spaceMPa) specified in ASTM C62.