Synthesis and Properties of Porous Bricks Obtained with the Use of Spherical Expanded Polystyrene Particles of Packaging Material

Abstract

In the present work, the prospects of using wastes of a packaging material consisting of spherical expanded polystyrene (EPS) particles for the manufacture of porous ceramics/bricks are considered. Ceramics were obtained from mixtures of red clay-grinded cullet - EPS particles. To reduce the release of toxic products of thermal destruction of EPS, two sintering modes have been developed. During sintering in the atmosphere, the two-stage temperature regime was carried out, which ensured preliminary dehydration of the clay and a quick transition to sintering at 1000 oC. During sintering in conditions of oxygen deficiency in firing furnaces, the temperature gradually rises to 1000 oC. At that, the sintering process is characterized by the absence of release of toxic products, and the carbonization of porous bricks. It has been established that, depending on the composition of the mixtures and the sintering conditions, it is possible to obtain durable wall ceramics with good thermal and sound insulation properties. Carbonized ceramics have enhanced strength properties due to the formation of forsterite. The presence of free carbon in the pores imparts adsorbing properties to carbonized ceramics and contributes to the appearance of electrical conductivity.