Characterization of Porous Fired Clay Brick Incorporating Bamboo Leaf

Abstract

This study explores the potential of incorporating bamboo leaf as an additive for fired clay brick. The clay and bamboo leaf were characterized by using different techniques [X-ray diffractometer (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry analysis (TGA/DSC)]. The bamboo leaves were prepared as forms of powder (BLP) and ash calcined at 200°C and 300°C (BLA 200°C and BLA 300°C) before being blended with clay raw material. The samples were fired at 1,050°C, 1,100°C, and 1,150°C and then tested for physical, mechanical, and thermal properties to confirm the advantages of bamboo leaf. The results indicated that the addition of bamboo leaf increased porosity on samples during firing process and hence lowered the density and thermal property. The incorporation of 5% by weight BLP resulted in a 10%–30% reduction in thermal conductivity at different firing temperatures, but it also led to the decrease in compressive strength about 17%–30%. These samples added with 15% by weight BLP showed about 40% reduction in thermal conductivity and still had average compressive strength of 15.40 MPa (1,100°C) and 24.90 MPa (1,150°C). The incorporation of BLA was more beneficial to increase porosity and compressive strength simultaneously. The samples added with 5% by weight BLA 300°C showed the average compressive strengths of 81.57 and 121.17 MPa fired at 1,100°C and 1,150°C, respectively. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis was provided on selected samples to see the porous microstructure formed by the addition of bamboo leaf. Samples added with 5% by weight BLP or BLA fired at 1,100°C all have compressive strength higher than 37 MPa and water absorption less than 15%. The corresponding thermal conductivity is between 0.75 and 0.83 W/mK.