Experimental Research on the Recyclability of the Clay Material Used in the Fabrication of Adobe Bricks Type Masonry Units

Abstract

In the sustainable development context, the possibility of recycling, reuse and reintegration in nature, environmental protection and efficient management of natural resources are significant indicators. Adobe bricks type masonry units meet successfully these requirements. This paper presents a series of experimental research conducted to explore the clay material recycling possibility of the adobe bricks type masonry units, previously used for various purposes. The used testing methods were chosen so as to pursue the preservation or not of some essential physical and mechanical characteristics (mechanical strength, density, axial shrinkage, thermal conductivity). The results indicated the followed parameters preservation for the specimens performed from recycled clay, compared to similar specimens, in whose composition has not been introduced recycled material. Also, the experimental results have indicated the reinforcing possibility with vegetable fiber (straw or hemp fibers), even if the binder was made using the recycled clay.