مسکن و محیط روستا (Jun 2023)
Construction of compressed bricks using carpet waste residues and their reinforcement with stabilizer
Abstract
The construction of compressed earth bricks is a cost-effective method that utilizes local resources. Instead of being baked under high pressure, these bricks are compacted and compressed to achieve sufficient strength. This makes them less energy-intensive compared to other building materials. However, one disadvantage of compressed earth bricks is their low resistance, which limits their use as a load-bearing system or as a component of it in construction. Many solutions proposed in recent years to increase the strength of earth bricks compromise their stability. The ability to produce fibers from waste and residues and use them in the construction and reinforcement of earth bricks not only improves their performance but also allows for the sustainable utilization of waste materials. In this research, waste industrial fibers from carpet roots (with percentages of 0.5%, 1.0%, and 2.0%) were used to reinforce compressed earth bricks, and unlike most studies, only traditional hydrated lime (4% by mass of soil) was used as a stabilizer (as Portland cement would increase costs and have environmental impacts). In this research, the original form of the brick (not cubic or cylindrical samples) was tested, and the results of compressive and flexural strength tests showed that the presence of lime in the compressed earth brick had a positive effect and led to an increase in the brick's strength in all compositions, and the presence of 2.0% fibers (carpet roots) can improve the performance of compressed earth bricks. In addition to the changes it creates in the ultimate compressive and flexural strength of the brick, the presence of fibers also reduces brittleness and cracking, acting like bridges between cracks in the compressed earth bricks, causing the brick to enter the hardening phase and undergo permanent deformation to prevent sudden and unexpected collapse of the bricks.
