Re-use of quarry fines for the production of blocks

Abstract

The clayey quarry fines (QF), coming from aggregate washing processes, are mixed with hemp straw (HS) to make non-bearing blocks. This study aims to obtain satisfying mechanical performances with interesting comfort characteristics by having blocks easy to handle and to manufacture. The study shows that mixes with only quarry fines and hemp straw give low mechanical performances. To enhance these results, lime and a superplasticizer are added in the mix design. By keeping a major proportion of quarry fines, the obtained mix offers mechanical strengths similar to performances of market products (gypsum blocks, cellular concrete blocks) and having interesting thermal and acoustic characteristics.