Comparative Evaluation of Potable Water and Laundry Wastewater on the Properties of Concrete Modified by Crushed Ceramic Waste

Abstract

The objective of this paper was to investigate a comparative evaluation of potable water and laundry wastewater on the properties of concrete modified by crushed ceramic waste using standard methods. Using various standard methods, slump, compaction factor, water absorption and compressive strength tests were carried out on the concrete samples. The slump test results indicated that potable water generally maintained consistent workability across different ceramic contents, while laundry wastewater achieved higher workability at 30% ceramic replacement. The compaction factor remained stable for potable water mixes (0.90 to 0.98), whereas laundry wastewater showed more variability (0.85 to 0.96). Water absorption tests revealed that potable water mixes have higher initial porosity but show decreased absorption with increased ceramic content, reaching a low of 1.1% at 15% replacement. Conversely, laundry wastewater mixes maintained lower absorption rates overall. Compressive strength tests indicated that potable water mixes consistently outperformed those made with laundry wastewater, although both exhibited reduced strengths at higher ceramic contents. These findings suggest that while laundry wastewater can be utilized in concrete production, careful optimization is necessary to ensure structural integrity. This research supports the sustainable use of alternative materials and water sources in concrete, aligning with contemporary efforts to enhance environmental sustainability in construction practices.