Computed tomographic analysis of a new eco-circular composite material for construction application

Details

Supervisors

Pardoen, Thomas

Faculty

Ecole polytechnique de Louvain

Degree label

Master [120] : ingénieur civil en chimie et science des matériaux, à finalité spécialisée

Abstract

The construction industry is not only considered the largest contributor to waste, but also the leader in environmental pollution. Instead of recycling, landfill is currently the primary method of dealing with waste generated by the construction sector in the majority of the world. Reducing the construction and demolition is not a solution, as the economic development of each country depends largely on construction projects. The best way to minimize waste generated by the construction industry is to employ eco-friendly materials and construction techniques to build sustainable buildings. This thesis aims to design a healthy and sustainable material for construction with a low energy production process, composed of paper from the recycling industry to which two additives are joined: hydraulic lime and recycled crushing sand. The experimental part of this thesis aims to test and compare various compositions with a specific characteristic in order to find the optimal composition for a material to serve in the construction industry. Microstructure is the prime factor controlling the mechanical property of materials. Therefore, knowing the microstructure of the material helps to understand its macroscopic response and to adapt the materials accordingly. Microstructural images of each composition are computed using X-ray micro-tomography and a visual representation of the individual material components, as well as analytic data on the microstructure, is provided. Additional information is then given on the possible impact of the porosity on the properties and on the role and correlation of the different phases between them. Finally, an in-situ compression tomography analysis is provided. The impact of the microstructure on the properties obtained in laboratory tests is then discussed, followed by a summary of the impact of each feature on the material.