Kaolin is a material used in a wide range of applications in many industrial sectors, as the paper and the ceramic industry. However, the kaolin processing industry generates large amounts of waste. Thus, the aim of this work is to evaluate the kaolin processing waste suitability as an alternative raw material for the production of mortars. The waste was characterized by determining its chemical composition, particle size distribution, and X-ray diffraction. Mortars were prepared by partially substituting kaolin waste for hydrated lime. Test specimens were prepared and their compression and indirect tension strength determined. The substitution of the lime by additions of up to 20% of kaolin waste improved the mechanical strength of masonry mortars up to 80%. The mechanical properties of the alternative mortars are in accordance with standard values, which indicated that it is possible to use kaolin waste for the production of mortars. Moreover, the waste addition may improve the mechanical properties of the conventional mortars.
Recycling; kaolin waste; mortar
