As global demand for freshwater intensifies amidst challenges like climate change, industrialisation, population growth, urbanisation, and inadequate water resource management, the concrete production industry faces a critical need for sustainable practices.
Dr Zakaria Che Muda, a professor at the Faculty of Engineering & Quantity Surveying (FEQS) at INTI International University, highlights the potential of alternative water sources to revolutionise concrete production. These alternatives include seawater, treated industrial wastewater, treated sewage wastewater, carwash station wastewater, wastewater from ready-mix concrete plants, and wastewater from the stone-cutting industry.
Professor Dr Zakaria Che Muda, from the Faculty of Engineering & Quantity Surveying (FEQS) at INTI International University, along with a team of researchers, has investigated the potential of alternative water sources to transform concrete production.
The primary goal is to reduce the substantial freshwater consumption associated with cement-based materials (CBMs) used in concrete while maintaining quality and performance metrics. Researchers extensively evaluate the effects of these alternative water sources on various properties of CBMs, including fresh properties, physical characteristics, compressive and tensile strength, and durability.
Laboratory tests scrutinise the performance of different wastewater types when substituted for potable water in concrete mixes. Parameters assessed include setting time, air content, and long-term durability. Through meticulous analysis, researchers determine the suitability of each wastewater type for concrete production.
Dr Zakaria categorises the effectiveness of alternative water sources for concrete based on their impact on concrete properties. He stated, “Treated industrial wastewater emerges as the most beneficial option, significantly enhancing compressive and tensile strengths with minimal adverse effects. Wastewater from ready-mix concrete plants also proves advantageous, maintaining crucial properties such as strength and air content. However, carwash station wastewater, while effective, may introduce corrosion risks.”
He further explained, “Treated sewage wastewater remains a viable option despite its tendency to reduce compressive strength. In contrast, wastewater from the stone-cutting industry ranks lower due to its detrimental effects on strength and slump characteristics. Each type necessitates careful consideration of treatment methods and application practices.”
Implementing alternative water sources in concrete production conserves freshwater resources and mitigates the environmental impact of wastewater disposal. This approach underscores a sustainable solution to address freshwater scarcity in the concrete industry.
Continued research and technological advancements are vital to optimise the use of these alternative water sources, refining treatments and developing suitable admixtures. This exploration offers a promising avenue for the concrete industry to address freshwater challenges effectively, integrating innovative solutions with rigorous scientific evaluation and technological innovation to achieve sustainable and resilient concrete production practices for the future.