Use of Ceramic Tile Wastes as Raw Substitution Material in the Production of Blended Cement

In this study, the feasibility of using ceramic wastes in the production of blended cement was evaluated by substituting limestone with ceramic waste at the percentages of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 28% before the milling stage. The chemical, physical, and mechanical properties of the cements were determined according to relevant standards, and the results were compared. The chemical analysis showed that the SiO2 content of the cements increased with higher ceramic waste substitution percentages, while the CaCO3 content decreased. The grindability of cements decreased with increased ceramic waste ratios, slightly reducing the Blaine specific surface area values. The water consistency for the cements was set at 28%, and all the cements met the standard limitations. The spread diameters for all types of cements were similar and practically usable in terms of workability. The cements containing ceramic waste either maintained or extended the setting time. All cements with ceramic waste exhibited higher flexural and compressive strength compared to the reference cement. The highest flexural strengths were achieved with a 28% ceramic waste substitution ratio across all curing ages. Regarding compressive strengths, all cements exhibited higher compressive strength than 10 MPa at 2 days and 32.5 MPa at 28 days, classifying them as 32.5 R-type blended cements. When the medium- (56–90 days) and long-term (365 days) compressive strengths were compared, the highest strength values were obtained from the cement with a 28% ceramic waste substitution. Although limestone-blended cement is emerging as a promising alternative to traditional Portland cement, these types of cement still contribute to environmental degradation due to the extraction of natural limestone resources through quarrying. This study showed that blended cements can be produced using ceramic waste, providing a more sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for the construction industry.

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