Utilization of Marble Wastes in Clay Bricks: A Step towards Lightweight Energy Efficient Construction Materials

Marble dust is one of the hazardous byproducts of marble-processing factories and requires planned disposal. Its beneficial use as a construction material will add to the sustainability, and most importantly, might overcome the burden of marble waste disposal. However, the use of marble dust in concrete has a negative impact. Therefore, this research examines various properties related to the utilization of such material in ceramic clay, and therefore its effects on the use of clay bricks are investigated. The research activity covers the categorization of marble dust powder from three different sources: Ziarat in Mohmand Agency, Buneer, and Mullagori (Pakistan). Its utilization in different proportions preparation of bricks is also addressed. Through the partial replacement of clay with marble dust from 0 to 30% by weight with amplification of 5%, seven mix designs are examined. The test result includes Bulk density, water absorption, porosity, thermal insulation, and strength. The partial replacement of clay with marble dust reduced its weight, strength and increased its porosity, water absorption, and thermal insulation. Furthermore, the utilization of marble powder in bricks minimizes soil erosion and reduces pollution to the environment. Doi: 10.28991/cej-2021-03091738 Full Text: PD

Review of Blast Loading Models, Masonry Response, and Mitigation

Different models for prediction of blast loading, response of masonry structure against blast load, and various mitigation strategies are discussed. Variation of peak positive incident pressure with scale distance in free field spherical burst and surface burst scenarios, proposed by different researchers, is presented and compared. The variation is found significant in the region of small scaled distances. Blast wave parameters in urban environment have been found different from the free field scenario. Effects of geometry, boundary conditions, and material properties on response of masonry buildings were found significant. Different mitigation strategies such as blast wall, landscaping, architecture, and retrofitting techniques are presented