Analysis of the Physicochemical and Mineralogical Properties of the Materials Used in the Preparation of Recoblocks

Abstract

The construction sector generates 14,000 t/d of construction waste in Mexico City, these materials do not have real applications and end up accumulating in landfills. This work, the objective of which was to analyze the physicochemical and mineralogical properties of soil and construction waste used in the manufacture of Recoblocks, is divided in five stages. First, the excavation material was submitted to field tests. Physical and chemical tests were then carried out on construction waste. Subsequently, the optimal mixture for making Recoblocks was determined. Next, Recoblocks were evaluated and compared with blocks made with water only, without mucilage of Opuntia ficus, and finally a feasibility study was performed. The X-ray diffraction study showed the presence of plagioclase, minerals that improve bending resistance, hardness, durability, as well as resistance to stress in a material. Compared to blocks manufactured without mucilage, the use of Opuntia ficus mucilage increased the compressive strength of the material by 59%, as well as the erodibility. Recoblocks are an environmentally friendly option because they are based on recycled materials, dried under the sun, which eliminates the use of brick oven. The production cost per unit is just USD 0.19, so it is a viable option as a building material.

Recovery of Mixtures of Construction Waste, PET and Sugarcane Bagasse for the Manufacture of Partition Blocks

“…In this case, all the mixtures studied meet this requirement—therefore, all the mixtures studied can be used in the building industry. These results are in line with previous studies [ 42 , 43 , 44 , 45 , 46 , 47 ].…”

“…The objective of the above was to determine the behavior of each mixture and establish the optimal ones for the manufacture of the Partition Blocks. In the process, the proportions of the materials used considered the adjustment of the granulometric characteristics of the waste, considering the principles of the manufacture of Partition Blocks [ 44 , 45 , 46 ].…”

“…Strength and stability are known to be lost in land-based building materials when they are in contact with water for extended periods of time. Therefore, in several studies, the spray erosion test is used to assess the durability of earthen blocks [ 44 ].…”