Use of Reclaimed Wastewater for Concrete Mixing

Abstract

This feasibility study of using reclaimed wastewater for concrete mixing was carried out in the laboratory. The compressive strength of concrete cubes cast with varying percentages of reclaimed wastewater in the total mixing water was studied. In general, slight increases in strength at early ages were observed from cubes cast with increased percentages of reclaimed wastewater compared with those cast with potable water. At three months or beyond, compressive strengths were similar. No adverse effect on compressive strength was observed when concrete was cured in reclaimed wastewater. In fact, concrete cubes cured in reclaimed wastewater showed increases in strength at earlier ages compared to those cured in potable water. The long-term compressive strengths are similar.