| Author(s) |
Md. Abul Hashem, Md. Mukimujjaman Miem, Sasbir Rahman Sium, Syeda Fariha Rahman, Md. Enamul Hasan Zahin, Md. Rafiqul Islam, Tanvir Ahmed, Sk Shaker Ahamed |
| Abstract Scope |
Human waste, specifically fecal sludge, is toxic to human health and the ecosystem, as it pollutes water and soil, thereby spreading diseases. This research focuses on the proper management of carbonized fecal sludge (CFS) in construction, specifically in brick production, where CFS is well-mixed with clay at 0-20% increments. The produced bricks were sun-dried, ignited (1000℃), and assessed the engineering properties, which showed that 16% of CFS-incorporated bricks were suitable with superior compressive strength (16.54 MPa), area shrinkage (3.32%), water absorption (16.03%), bulk density (1.89 g/cm3), weight reduction (11.66%), and apparent porosity (36.47%) without efflorescence. The absence of pathogens in CFS made it suitable for efficient handling. The brick's microstructure, elements, and phases were evaluated by SEM, EDS, and XRD, respectively. The NEN 7345 and USEPA 1311 leaching revealed metal release below the standards. Hence, CFS-incorporated bricks can be a suitable pathway toward waste management. |