Evaluation of the Influence of Waste Glass Powder (Wgp) on the Thermo-Mechanical Performance of Fired Ceramics

Abstract

Effects of elevated temperature on thermo-mechanical properties of fired ceramic products reinforced with waste glass powder (WGP) were reported. Samples were produced by the addition of WGP to clay in varied amount and oven dried samples were fired in an electric furnace which was operated 1200 oC. Compressive and flexural strength were examined at room temperature and at elevated temperatures of 100, 300, 500, 700, and 900 oC. Results showed that, compressive strength and flexural strength reduced at elevated temperatures. Thermal conductivity, diffusivity, and emissivity were higher with increasing WGP content, while thermal expansivity and specific heat capacity were lower as percentage WGP increased in the samples. Results on thermal shock resistance showed that WGP reduced shock resistance in the samples, while the cooling rate increased with the percentage addition of WGP. Impact resistance was noted to decrease in samples when fast cooled from high temperature as the rapid cooling rate was observed to increase with WGP addition in samples. It was concluded that for fired clay products incorporated with WGP, the operating temperature should not exceed 700 oC. Also, in an environment whereby cooling is done by air or/and water, an operating temperature of ≤ 300 oC was recommended.

Experimental Study on the Mechanical Behaviour of Fired Sand-Clay and Glass Powder-Clay Bricks

“…Oven drying is done on green ceramic body at 110 o C for water removal and decomposition of some organic elements present. Firing process involves exposure of ceramic body to high temperature for a period of time to enhance hardness, strength and other properties [5][6][7]. The process of sintering enhances bond within particles leading to improved properties [8].…”

“…Properties of fired bricks include porosity, shrinkage, density, and strength. Clay in its raw form is porous which affects strength and density in the sense that higher porosity leads to reduced strength [7,9]. For structural application, reduced porosity in bricks is necessary in order to ensure structural integrity of buildings.…”