Comparative study on the performance of sand-based mortars from marble, floor tile and cinder block waste

Abstract

This paper presents a comparative study of the role played by sands extracted from marble, floor tile and cinder block wastage on the properties, mechanical performance and durability aspects of a siliceous sand-based mortar. The main purpose is to appreciate the recovery of these sands in the composition of the mortar and to look for the best substitute for natural sand. Three series of mortar mixes were manufactured and compared to the formulation of the control mortar, which was based on a constant quantity of cement and a constant ratio of water/cement equal to 0.56. The various waste sands were used to substitute the dune sand in the reference mortar, at rates of 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%. Several tests were carried out on mortar specimens, namely: density, consistency, air content, mechanical strength tests, water absorption tests, and resistance tests against acid attacks. The results obtained, show a favourable effect of all sands on the properties in the fresh, hardened states and on the durability of the mortars. The mortar at 20% of marble sand waste is the one with the best performance of all the mortars, in terms of consistency, air content, flexural strength, water absorption and resistance to attack by acetic acid solution. However, the mortar with 20% of floor tile sand exhibits the highest compressive strength. Furthermore, the mortar-based 15% of cinder block sand is more resistant to attack by sulphuric acid. Thus, the use of ‘waste’ sand with appropriate dosages lowers the consumption of natural aggregates and contributes to improving the environment by reducing original waste.