UTILIZATION OF PADDY HUSK IN LIGHTWEIGHT BRICKS FOR SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION AND WASTE MANAGEMENT

Abstract

The construction industry is a major consumer of natural resources and contributors to environmental pollution, primarily due to high embodied energy in conventional materials such as concrete and clay bricks. This study explores the innovative use of paddy husk, an abundant agricultural waste product in the production of lightweight bricks as a sustainable alternative. The bricks were formulated by mixing paddy husk with cement in a 1:1 ratio, molded into standard dimensions, and cured through air drying. Physical and mechanical tests demonstrated that the lightweight bricks are significantly lighter by approximately 8% over 7 days than traditional bricks, with compressive strength values comparable to commercial silica sand bricks; 4.3 to 6.3 N/mm². These bricks offer benefits including reduced structural load, lower carbon footprint due to lighter weight and reduced transportation emissions and improved thermal insulation. This approach addresses environmental challenges by managing paddy husk waste, reduces reliance on high-energy materials, and offers economic advantages through cost savings and rural income generation. The findings support the viability of paddy husk lightweight bricks for sustainable construction, aligning with global sustainability goals for responsible consumption and clean energy.