Recycled Red Brick Masonry Demolition Waste as a Sustainable Cement Replacement Alternative: A DoE-Based Approach

This study presents the findings of an experimental and numerical investigation into the recycling of construction waste, introducing an innovative approach to repurpose red bricks from masonry demolition waste as a sustainable substitute for cement. The experimental work involved mechanical characterization of different mortar mixes at 3, 7, and 28 days after casting, along with the measurement of water absorption at 28 days. The design process utilized the "Mixture Design" technique, which analyzed 14 mixes comprising Portland cement, ground brick, and ground mortar. A predictive model was developed to estimate compressive strength, flexural strength, and water absorption over the curing period, yielding high correlation coefficients that validate its reliability. Additionally, the study proposes optimized cement-to-waste ratios tailored to different ground brick and ground mortar compositions, providing a novel approach to material formulation. These findings significantly contribute to advancing the circular economy by valorizing demolition waste, while simultaneously improving the durability and sustainability of construction materials, offering a practical and environmentally conscious alternative for the construction industry.