Effect of Biomass-Based Additives on the Thermal, Physical, and Mechanical Properties of Fired Clay Bricks: A Review

Abstract

The wide use of clay minerals in various applications, particularly the production of fired bricks for buildings, has led to the continuous depletion of clay deposits. Moreover, a considerable amount of waste is generated globally which negatively impacts the environment and is constantly increasing. To conserve the environment and reduce clay depletion, it has become popular to incorporate these wastes into clays for fired brick production. Biomass-based wastes are advantageous when used as additives because they enhance the technological properties of the bricks, reduce energy and cost requirements, and alleviate the effect of climate change on buildings. This work reviews the influence of biomass-based additives on the physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of fired clay bricks. We considered recent articles (2014–2024) on various biomass-based additives, describing how the dosage of the additives influences the shrinkage, porosity, water absorption, bulk density, compressive strength, and thermal conductivity of fired bricks. The optimum values of the technological properties from the studies reviewed were highlighted. Moreover, the knowledge gaps were identified, and future perspectives were presented. In general, the incorporation of biomass-based materials in fired bricks decreased the thermal conductivity and density, which is suitable for sustainable lightweight thermally insulating bricks.