A Comprehensive Review of the Improvement of the Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Unfired Clay Bricks by Incorporating Waste Materials

In recent years, the construction sector has significantly increased demand for new building materials that can reduce environmental impact and promote sustainable design strategies. In this context, the use of earth for construction purposes has received increasing attention in the last decade owing to its low environmental impact, local availability, and recyclability. The literature survey indicates that the incorporation of waste materials in the production of unfired earth bricks holds significant potential to partly substitute earth by satisfying specific requirements. Additionally, utilizing these waste materials for the development of unfired earth bricks provides a solution that conserves natural resources, reduces energy consumption, and contributes to efficient waste management. The aim of this paper is to present an overview of recent research focusing on the recycling of various types of waste into eco-friendly unfired earth bricks. Also, the effect of the incorporation of waste materials on the thermal and mechanical properties of unfired clay bricks is reviewed. The most common results, organized based on the type of additive (industrial or agricultural waste), are shown and discussed.