Surface Treatment and Comparative Analysis for the Performance Assessment of Crushed Brick Aggregates as Coarse Aggregate Substitutes in Concrete

Abstract

This research paper investigates the feasibility of utilizing recycled bricks as an alternative
to traditional aggregates in concrete mixtures. Various mix designs were developed with a variablewater-to-cement (w/c) ratio for the and fine aggregate, while the composition of coarse aggregates
was modified to examine the effects on the physical and mechanical properties of fresh and hardened
concrete. The study focuses on evaluating parameters such as compressive strength, splitting strength,
and flexural strength at different ages of curing. Additionally, the impact of different treatment
methods on the performance of recycled brick aggregates is examined. The results indicated that
incorporating crushed bricks into concrete mixtures significantly affects the workability of the
mixture, resulting in a notable reduction. Furthermore, when recycled bricks are added to the concrete
mix, along with various treatments, there is a negative impact on the compressive strength of the
hardened concrete. The irregular shape and size distribution of the crushed brick particles contribute
to stress concentrations and weak zones within the concrete, leading to a decrease in compressive,
tensile, and flexural strength properties.