The construction industry faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices due to the environmental impacts associated with cement production and excessive river sand extraction. Cement manufacture contributes significantly to global carbon dioxide emissions, while uncontrolled sand mining leads to environmental degradation. This study investigates the compressive strength and performance characteristics of laterite concrete incorporating ceramic waste powder (CWP) as a partial replacement for ordinary Portland cement. Laterite was used as a partial replacement for fine aggregate, while ceramic waste powder obtained from discarded ceramic tiles replaced cement at levels of 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% by weight. Workability was evaluated using slump tests, and compressive strength was determined at 7, 14, and 28 days of curing. Results indicate that concrete containing up to 10% ceramic waste powder achieved higher compressive strength than the control mix, while higher replacement levels resulted in strength reduction due to cement dilution. The findings demonstrate that laterite concrete incorporating ceramic waste powder is a viable and environmentally sustainable alternative for structural concrete applications, particularly in developing regions where these materials are readily available.
Kizito et al. (2026) studied this question.