Replacement of Coarse Aggregate with Brick Chips for the Preparation of Concrete: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

The increasing demand for sustainable building materials and the management of construction and demolition (C&D) waste has prompted significant research into alternative coarse aggregates for concrete production. Brick chips, derived from demolished brick waste, have emerged as a promising substitute for conventional natural coarse aggregates. This review paper synthesizes current research on the use of brick chips as coarse aggregate replacement, examining mechanical properties, durability characteristics, physical properties, and practical applications. The study reveals that while brick aggregate concrete (BAC) exhibits comparable compressive strength to conventional stone aggregate concrete at moderate replacement levels (5–25%), higher replacement percentages result in strength reduction due to lower aggregate crushing values and higher water absorption capacity. Key findings indicate that concrete with brick chips demonstrates reduced density (5–13% lower), variable tensile strength (18–20% lower to 20% higher), and enhanced permeability characteristics. The durability performance varies with brick source and type, with engineering brick aggregates performing similarly to natural aggregates while construction bricks show reduced frost resistance. This paper concludes that brick chips can be effectively used as a sustainable alternative for specific applications, particularly in non-structural elements and pervious concrete systems, while ongoing research focuses on optimization of replacement percentages and protective treatments.