BYBLEND BRICK: THE SUSTAINABLE BRICK
by Dakshesh Bhattad
This project seeks to address a redevelopment project includes the creation of a library that serves as a public space, along with a commercial cafe and activity area. The revolutionary aspect of this project lies in the materials chosen for the construction process. The redevelopment will incorporate various waste materials, such as paper, wood ash, coffee grounds, cork, bamboo, and waste concrete fragments resulting from the demolition of the existing building. By utilizing these materials, the project aims to promote sustainability and repurpose waste, providing an innovative and environmentally friendly approach to construction.
Three organic bricks were manufactured and put to test, out of which the brick made of paper, coffee, wood ash, and cork showed the highest strength. However, its maximum load-bearing capacity is much lower compared to that of a papercrete brick. The challenge lied in creating a structure using these organic bricks and finding ways to support the building load. Therefore, the design of the facade plays a crucial role in distributing the weight load on the bricks.
