Holistic evaluation of ceramic clay properties with Sargassum spp. ash replacement

Author(s)

Parente, Igor Machado da Silva ; Lyra, Gabriela Pitolli ; Bueno, Cristiane ; Tonin, Fernando Gustavo ; Rossignolo, Joao Adriano

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS; v. 435, p. 11-pg., 2024-05-29.

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze the effect of adding sargassum ash as a mineral additive in ceramic clays sintered in a conventional oven to obtain construction materials with lower consumption of raw materials while providing an appropriate destination to stranded sargassum. The characterizations of the components were performed by Xray fluorescence spectroscopy, loss on ignition, X-ray diffraction, particle size distribution, and real specific mass. The specimens were sintered in an electric oven and exposed to maximum temperatures of 800 degrees C, 900 degrees C and 1000 degrees C. The influence of 10 % and 20 % sargassum ash content on ceramic clay performance was evaluated through physical and mechanical tests. Samples with 10 % sargassum ash sintered at 900 degrees C and 1000 degrees C had the best mechanical properties. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was used to compare ceramics with sargassum ash to other conventional materials, such as ceramic clay used in tiles. The high energy consumption in the sintering process is the greatest contribution to most environment impact. As such, it is possible to add 10% sargassum ash sintered at 900 degrees C as a clay replacement, reducing environment impacts and enhancing the performance of the materials. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 19/21007-0 - Holostic approch of Sargassum valorisation
• Grantee: Joao Adriano Rossignolo
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants