Physical and Mechanical Properties of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) with Ceramic and Gypsum Waste (CGW) Addition Before and After Exposure to Direct Fire at Temperatures up to 920°C

Abstract

This research endeavors to comprehensively explore the physical and mechanical properties of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) with ceramic and gypsum waste (CGW) addition before and after exposure to direct fire at temperatures up to 920°C. The investigation focuses on determining the effects of CGW addition on AAC properties before and after exposure to direct fire at temperatures reaching 920℃ for 300 seconds. The main objective of this research was to determine the work density and compressive strength of AAC-CGW on the surface of direct fire exposure. In pursuit of this goal, various compositions of AAC with CGW, ranging from 5% to 30% wt/wt, were accurately prepared. The physical and mechanical were conducted before and after subjecting to direct fire testing. Important parameters such as work density, ranging from 593.71kg/m³ to 672.70kg/m³, and compressive strength from 1.64MPa to 2.39MPa, were analyzed. The findings demonstrated that the compressive strength exhibited an increase with CGW addition, particularly within the 5% wt/wt. The high point compressive strength value recorded was 2.39MPa for a 5% wt/wt CGW addition, reflecting a 45.73% increase in compressive strength compared to the reference sample (RS). The study also revealed convincing fire resistance results. Indicating for the reference sample (RS), the samples exhibited surfaces devoid of cracks, burns, or melting during direct fire exposure exceeding 920℃ for 300 seconds. Furthermore, CGW addition contributed to a remarkable 20.1% improvement in thermal insulation compared to the RS. Direct fire resistance testing had a positive influence on the physical and mechanical characteristics of AAC-CGW samples. The average work density experienced a 9.9% reduction, while compressive strength exhibited an 18.8% increase. Direct fire exposure led to an outstanding 53.30% enhancement in compressive strength compared to the sample.