Sustainable clay brick manufacturing using a double-layered solar-powered metallic kiln
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Author |
Morris Mutegi, Millien Kawira and Stephen Njoroge
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e-ISSN |
1819-6608 |
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On Pages
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1102-1110
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Volume No. |
20
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Issue No. |
14
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Issue Date |
October 31, 2025
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DOI |
https://doi.org/10.59018/0725127
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Keywords |
kilns, solar energy, bricks, parabolic dish solar concentrator, compressive strength, flexural strength.
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Abstract
Traditional clay brick manufacturing relies on wood and fossil fuels, leading to high energy consumption, harmful emissions, and increased costs. This study proposes a sustainable solution using a metallic kiln with double-layer insulation and a parabolic dish solar concentrator to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Heated air from the solar concentrator receiver is directed through clay bricks in a fiberglass-insulated metallic kiln, enhancing heat retention and temperature control. A fan regulates heat and humidity, while hot air recirculation minimizes energy wastage. Moreover, moisture removal is managed by adjusting air vents. The clay bricks (0.225m × 0.11m × 0.075m) were tested for compressive strength, modulus of rupture, and water absorption on the 7th, 28th, and 56th days of drying. The compressive strength improved from 2.63 N/mm² on day 7 to 7.20 N/mm² on day 56. The findings highlight the potential of this system to improve brick quality, enhance energy efficiency, and reduce environmental impact.
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