Review of the use of E-waste in concrete production: challenges and prospects

• Published in: Emergent materials (Online) Vol. 7; no. 3; pp. 821 - 845
• Main Authors: Bamigboye, Gideon O., Effiong, John U., Ede, Anthony N., Olukanni, David O., Okoro, Chukwunonyenim W., Adebesin, Joshua A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Cham Springer International Publishing 2024
• Subjects: Chemistry and Materials Science; Energy Materials; Materials Engineering; Materials Science; Review; E-waste; Durability; Concrete; Sustainable development; Construction materials
• ISSN: 2522-5731; 2522-574X
• DOI: 10.1007/s42247-024-00630-3

Due to the obvious negative environmental effect of electronic waste because of its limited biodegradability, experts worldwide are interested in developing sustainable construction materials utilizing e-waste and its recovered extractions. The current review attempts to reassess E-waste use in the production of concrete. To assess problems and opportunities in the use of these waste materials, their physical, structural, and durability qualities will be investigated. The study shows the efficiency of E-waste in the improvement of fresh properties and a decrease in the hardened properties of concrete with varying effects on durability properties. The study shows the addition of waste materials such as fly ash, waste glass, and steel slag helps improve some of these properties. However, further research is recommended to develop other means of improving E-waste concrete strength properties for wider acceptance and utilization in the construction industry. This appraisal will help to promote sustainable and cheap E-waste development in the building sector. It will also help to alleviate strain on naturally existing concrete aggregates, as well as reduce pollution of landfill sites, groundwater, and, of course, protect the health of organisms and ecosystems.