Compressive strengths of concrete by partially replacing sand with iron-ore waste

Abstract

Sand is extracted at a rate more than its restoration. Nevertheless, the availability of sand in the growing demand of the construction industry remains a challenge due to cost and quality problems. This study investigates the compressive strength of concrete by partially replacing sand with iron-ore waste. Experimental investigations were conducted to study the compressive strength, physical, mechanical and fresh property of concrete containing iron-ore waste. During the experiment, concrete cubes were prepared with 10-100% composition of iron ore waste to evaluate their compressive strength. Results from the experimentation revealed that, concrete cubes prepared by partially replacing sand with iron ore waste often yield a better compressive strength than a conventional concrete. More so, the densities of concrete cubes were observed to remain consistent but increased slightly, notably at 10% and 20% of waste replacement. Meanwhile, at 30% waste replacement, there was reduction in compressive strength at 28days curing age and this reduction continued as percentage iron ore increased towards 100%. Also, increase in compressive strength of concrete cubes was observed at 10-20% sand replacement with iron ore. It was therefore established that concrete produced under 10% and 20% replacement, can be utilized for all construction purposes requiring concrete.