Critical review of recent development in fiber reinforced adobe bricks for sustainable construction

Abstract

This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of research on the utilization of fibers (predominantly derived from waste materials) as reinforcement in adobe brick production. Recycling of these wastes provides sustainable construction materials and helps to protect the environment. Specimen preparation and test procedures are outlined. The effects of addition of these wastes on the physical and mechanical properties of adobe bricks as presented in the literature, are investigated. The main results for each additive are presented and discussed. It is concluded that improved adobe brick properties can be expected with the addition of combination of waste additives. The use of waste materials in the construction industry is generally of interest and useful for engineers and designers seeking sustainable solutions in construction. It is also of interest to researchers actively seeking to develop methodical approaches to quantifying, optimising and testing the performance in use of such waste material additives.

Keywords

adobe bricks / fibre reinforced bricks / green / sustainable building material / physical and mechanical properties

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Acknowledgement

The authors gratefully acknowledge the research support fund provided by the Sudanese Ministry of Higher Education, School of Engineering University of Khartoum and the School of Engineering, University of Aberdeen.

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