Production of lightweight mortar using recycled waste papers and pulverized ceramics: Mechanical and microscale properties

The development of new composites using eco-friendly materials is the new trend of ensuring sustainability of construction materials. This study aimed at the development of lightweight mortar using recycled waste papers and pulverized ceramics, which is a foreseen energy-efficient and eco-friendly constructions process. Standard mortar samples of 40 x 40 x 160 mm were fabricated by varying aggregates contents (waste papers, pulverized ceramics and river sand) at 0, 25, 75 and 100%. The study determined the suitability of the samples produced by examining the physical properties (water absorption and densities), mechanical properties (compressive strength and flexural strength), and microscale/mineralogy tests (Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Xray fluorescence). A 26% increase in flexural strength was observed with 100% ceramics as aggregate in concrete, and the same mix possessed lesser water absorption properties. Overall, the study established that pulverized ceramics and moderate paper aggregates are suitable for sustainable mortar production. Results of this study will serve as a guide for the developer of cementitious composites.