Separation of bricks and mortar using pressure waves

Gregory, Richard. 2006. Separation of bricks and mortar using pressure waves. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University.

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Abstract

This thesis describes a series of investigations performed to determine the possibility of separating bricks and mortar using pressure waves. A study of the current brick recycling practised within the UK was performed. This study identifies a need for improved brick reclamation processes. Initial investigations were performed using one-sixth scale couplets. The one-sixth scale bricks and mortar could be separated by placing them in an ultrasound bath. Further investigations were performed to determine the vibrations that would be necessary to recreate the separation of one-sixth scale couplet using an ultrasound bath at full scale. Based on these investigations, a prototype designed to separate full scale couplets was constructed. A series of specimens were tested in the prototype and the vibrations passing through the specimens were recorded. These results showed that the prototype was able to achieve vibrations at the intended frequency and amplitude within the specimens. However, no separation occurred and therefore it was concluded that this process was not appropriate for brick reclamation of full scale bricks in this manner. An investigation of the bond strength developed between the bricks and mortar of one-sixth scale and full scale couplets was performed. It was found that the full scale specimens developed a bond strength greater than that developed in the one-sixth scale specimens.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Engineering
Subjects:	T Technology > TA Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General)
ISBN:	9781303201929
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	30 March 2016
Last Modified:	10 Oct 2017 15:29
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/56017

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