Exploring the
Use of Domestic Wastewater as an Alternative to Freshwater in Concrete Production
to avoid future Disasters
Peche Rajesh T. and Jamkar Sanjay S.
Disaster Advances; Vol. 18(6); 35-41;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/186da035041; (2025)
Abstract
As per various codes, fresh water is the most preferable for use in construction
industry. It is also said that water fit for drinking is fit for construction. Such
perceptions are putting tremendous pressure on fresh water availability. This study
explores the use of the fraction of domestic wastewater i.e. greywater in concrete
production as a sustainable approach in addressing the high water demand in the
construction industry and the growing issue of freshwater scarcity, particularly
in regions like India. Greywater, which is low-contamination domestic wastewater,
is abundant, perennial and ubiquitous. It can be an environmentally sustainable
alternative to fresh water particularly in huge water demanding construction industry.
The research focuses on the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of grey
water. Screened grey water samples were collected from three distinct household
sources and analyzed for mixing water parameters to compare with the limiting values
given in various mixing water codes. These grey water samples are then used for
concrete preparation. Potable water based concrete and grey water are compared for
environmental sustainability and material performance to avoid future disasters.
The results indicate no significant differences in compressive strength between
greywater-based and potable water-based concrete. In terms of compressive strength,
greywater concrete performed similarly to or slightly better than its potable water
counterpart. The presence of soaps, detergents and surfactants in the greywater
may have contributed to these enhanced properties, demonstrating the potential of
greywater as a sustainable solution for reducing freshwater consumption and advancing
environmentally conscious practices in concrete production and overall construction
industry.
