EFFECT OF FIRING TEMPERATURE ON CLAY BRICKS CONTAINING RUBBER TIRES WASTES

Abstract

The growing accumulation of waste materials, particularly used rubber tires, poses significant environmental challenges and calls for sustainable reuse strategies. This study addresses the problem by investigating the incorporation of chopped rubber tire waste into clay bricks using two locally available soils with varying carbonate contents. The approach involved preparing bricks with rubber content of 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% by weight. The soil-rubber mixtures were mechanically blended, extruded, and shaped, then subjected to different soaking times (4, 8, 12 hours) and fired at temperatures ranging from 650°C to 1000°C. Comprehensive testing was conducted on the resulting bricks to evaluate their physical (volume change, density, water absorption), mechanical (compressive strength), thermal (thermal conductivity), and aesthetic (color, efflorescence) properties. The results showed that increasing rubber content led to lower density, compressive strength, and thermal conductivity, while increasing porosity and water absorption. Optimal performance was observed at firing temperatures between 700°C and 750°C, yielding lightweight bricks with adequate strength and improved thermal insulation. Additionally, the combustion of rubber contributed to lower energy demand during firing, demonstrating potential for reduced fuel consumption and carbon emissions. In conclusion, the study provides a viable pathway for the reuse of rubber waste in sustainable brick production, supporting circular economy practices in the construction industry. The findings offer valuable insights for environmental engineers, policy-makers, and manufacturers, while also laying the groundwork for future research on hybrid additives, scalability, and the long-term performance of rubber-enhanced bricks across diverse climatic conditions.