Strength Properties and Microscopic Experimental Study of Modified Sawdust Based on Solid Waste Synergistic...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Environmental Engineering
• Waste Management

Background:

• Sawdust is a difficult-to-manage stone processing byproduct with large stockpiles.
• Comprehensive utilization of sawdust is crucial for waste reduction and resource management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synergistically utilize sawdust with industrial wastes (fly ash, silt, red mud).
• To prepare modified sawdust using cement as a curing agent.
• To analyze the performance of modified sawdust through mechanical and durability tests.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of modified sawdust using varying dosages of industrial wastes and cement.
• Unconfined compressive strength tests at 7 and 28 days.
• Dry and wet cycle tests.
• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis.

Main Results:

• Modified sawdust achieved compressive strength over 2.5 MPa after 7 days and over 4 MPa after 28 days.
• An 8% solid waste dosage demonstrated the best performance.
• Modified sawdust with 8% fly ash exhibited superior wet and dry cycle resistance (expansion/shrinkage < 0.5%).

Conclusions:

• Synergistic utilization of sawdust with industrial wastes and cement is feasible.
• An 8% solid waste dosage is recommended for optimal performance in practical applications.
• This research offers a novel approach for managing sawdust and other solid wastes.