Experimental investigations on utilization of electroplating waste sludge for developing construction material

Abstract

This thesis investigates the reuse of electroplating waste sludge (EWS) for developing construction material by using polymer as binder. The detailed studies have been undertaken to find out the physical and chemical properties of EWS and best suitable polymer was selected for stabilization and solidification of EWS. The moisture content of less than 10% in EWS has been identified as the optimum moisture level for making polymer-based construction material. To determine the optimum mixing ratio between polymer and EWS, seven different trial mixes, labeled M1 to M7, were prepared. The EWS content for each mix was set at 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, and 60%, respectively. For each trial mix, six cubes of size 15 x 15 x 15 cm were cast and tested for compressive strength. The average compressive strength decreases from 55.22 MPa to 46.25 MPa when sludge content rises from 30% to 60% by total weight, highlighting its negative impact on compressive strength. Beyond 60%, the mix becomes unworkable, setting this as the maximum allowable sludge percentage. Despite the strength reduction, trial mix M7 performs comparatively better than M40 grade concrete, known for its high strength and durability. newline