A Review on Experimental Studies on Concrete using Ceramic Waste and Synthetic Fibres

Abstract

Abstract: The need for the present study arises from increasing concerns related to sustainability, environmental protection, and the growing demand for durable and economical construction materials. The construction industry heavily depends on natural coarse aggregates, which are obtained from quarries and riverbeds. Continuous and excessive extraction of these aggregates has led to scarcity of quality natural resources, increased material costs, and adverse environmental impacts. Hence, identifying suitable alternative materials for partial replacement of coarse aggregates has become essential.
Ceramic industries generate a substantial amount of waste during manufacturing, transportation, and installation processes. Broken tiles, sanitary ware, and rejected



ceramic products are often disposed of in landfills, leading to serious environmental pollution and land degradation. Since ceramic waste is non-biodegradable, its accumulation poses long-term environmental hazards. Utilizing ceramic waste as a partial replacement of coarse aggregate in concrete provides an effective solution for waste management while reducing the burden on natural resources.
Moreover, the combined use of ceramic waste aggregate and synthetic fibres contributes to the development of sustainable and eco-friendly concrete. Such concrete minimizes environmental pollution, conserves natural resources, and promotes the recycling of industrial waste materials. The study is therefore necessary to experimentally evaluate the feasibility, strength performance, and practical applicability of M20 grade concrete incorporating ceramic waste as partial coarse aggregate replacement along with the addition of synthetic fibres, ensuring both structural efficiency and environmental sustainability.
In the present experimental work, crushed ceramic waste is used as coarse aggregate in manufacturing of M20 grade of concrete. The crushed ceramic waste is partially replaced as coarse aggregates with varying percentages as 0%, 5, 10%, 15% and 20% and also with the addition of constant 1.5% of polypropylene synthetic fibres. The workability, compressive strength, splitting tensile strength and flexural strength of M20 grade of concrete mix are compared with normal concrete (without any replacement).
Based on the experimental findings, it can be concluded that the combined use of ceramic waste and synthetic fibres in M20 grade concrete not only improves certain mechanical properties but also contributes to sustainable construction by reducing the consumption of natural aggregates and promoting effective waste utilization.