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This will include all research articles published by all scholars of Kabale University in diverse disciplines.
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Browsing Research Articles by Author "Abbas, U."
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Item Open Access Mechanical performance of structural concrete utilising porcelain insulator ceramic waste as partial replacement for coarse aggregates(2025) Kabiru, R. U; Abbas, U.; Hassan, A.; Muhindo, D.The increasing environmental impact of natural aggregate extraction and the growing accumulation of ceramic waste have prompted the search for sustainable construction materials. This study investigates the feasibility of using ceramic waste from waste electric insulators as partial replacement for natural coarse aggregates in concrete production. The ceramic waste from waste electric insulators termed here as porcelain insulator ceramic waste (PICW) sourced from local dumpsites was processed and incorporated into concrete mixes at replacement levels of 0%, 15%, 30%, 50% and 75%. Coarse aggregates of maximum size 20 mm were used in this study. The ceramic waste from waste electricity insulators was crushed using a hammer up to size 20 mm as indicated in the particle size distribution. Grade 25 of concrete was designed for in the mix design. Laboratory tests, including sieve analysis, moisture content, specific gravity, water absorption, workability (via slump testing), and compressive strength were conducted to assess the mechanical and physical properties of both fresh and hardened concrete at curing intervals of 7, 14, and 28 days. The findings indicate that concrete containing up to 30% ceramic waste exhibits highest cempressive strength and workability comparable to conventional concrete without compromising its durability and workability, demonstrating its potential as a viable and eco-friendly alternative. The highest compressive strengths were recorded with 15% and 30% at 25.7 and 25.5 MPa respectively. Conversely, tensile strength declines with increasing PICW replacement at 28 days thus 3.32, 3.16, 2.99, 2.31 MPa. The study underscores the dual benefits of reducing construction costs and promoting sustainable waste management, making ceramic waste a promising material in the pursuit of green construction practices i.e., sustainable construction by mitigating environmental degradation and promoting circular waste utilization. The study offers valuable insights for future standards development and large-scale industrial applications.