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

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 variable water-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.