RECYCLING OF INDUSTRIAL WASTE TO CREATE NEW COMPOSITE MATERIALS

Abstract

This article investigates the possibility of producing new composite materials for construction applications using industrial and household waste. Brick rubble, microsilica, ash, and slaked lime were used as starting materials. The objective of the study is to develop a formulation for a recycled composite material and to evaluate its physical and mechanical properties. To achieve this objective, experimental formulations and a sample fabrication process were developed. The studies included determining compressive strength in accordance with GOST 10180-2012, water absorption in accordance with GOST 12730.3-2020, and examining the microstructure using scanning electron microscopy. It was found that samples containing brick rubble and slaked lime exhibited the highest compressive strengths, with compressive strengths of 9.1 and 8.28 kgf/cm², respectively. It was shown that applying a protective coating reduces the water absorption of the studied materials to 2.5–12.5%, which contributes to an increase in their moisture resistance. Microstructural analysis confirmed the formation of a dense, homogeneous structure without pronounced defects in the samples with the highest strength characteristics. The results obtained confirm the potential of the integrated use of construction and industrial waste to produce composite materials with satisfactory performance properties intended for use in construction and foundry production, and also contribute to addressing the challenges of resource conservation and reducing environmental impact.