Analysis of the effect of paper sludge on the properties, microstructure and frost resistance of clay bricks

Abstract

The paper analyses the effect of waste sludge from paper industry (paper sludge) on physical and mechanical properties of clay bricks, their microstructure and resistance to freezing and thawing. Paper sludge is not hazardous industrial waste mainly consisting of cellulose and calcite. Clay bodies were made from the mix containing from 5% to 20% of paper sludge and fired at 900 °C and 1000 °C temperatures. Open pore structure in the clay body is developed as a result of burnt cellulose fibres and calcite decarbonization. Physical and mechanical properties of clay bodies change depending on the content of added PS: shrinkage, density and compressive strength reduce, water absorption and effective porosity increase. It is recommended to add 5% of paper sludge to the clay body and fire it at 900 °C temperature, or alternatively add 5–15% of paper sludge and fire the clay body at 1000 °C temperature. In terms of resistance to freezing and thawing, such products are regarded as frost resistant in moderately aggressive environment, i.e. in structures protected from direct environmental effects.