Properties of partition wall blocks prepared with high percentages of recycled clay brick after exposure to elevated temperatures

Abstract

High temperature properties of partition wall concrete blocks prepared with recycled clay brick aggregate derived from construction and demolition (C&D) waste streams (e.g. collapsed masonry after an earthquake) were studied. For this purpose three series of concrete block mixes were designed using coarse and fine clay brick aggregate to replace recycled concrete aggregate and sand at percentages of 25%, 50% 75% and 100%. The residual density, mass loss, compressive and flexural strengths after exposure to elevated temperatures of 300 C, 500 C and 800 C were determined. The results demonstrated that selection of an appropriate replacement for both coarse and fine clay brick aggregates can lead to better performance of the blocks at elevated temperatures. It is expected therefore that there will be significant advantages in terms of sustainability and fire safety by adopting this inherent fire-resistant material in concrete blocks especially for low rise residential developments.