Durability performance of structural concrete containing silica fume and marble industry waste powder

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation of durability properties carried out on 16 concrete mixes containing marble waste powder and silica fume as partial replacement of ordinary Portland cement. The latter was partially replaced at different ratios of silica fume (0%, 2.5%, 5%, 10%) and marble waste powder (0%, 5%, 10%, 20%). In all concrete mixes, constant water/binder ratio of 0.45 and target initial slump of S2 class (50–90 mm) were used. Workability and bulk density tests were carried out on fresh concrete, while compressive strength, electrical resistivity, water absorption, durability to sodium sulphate, magnesium sulphate and sulphuric acid attack tests were performed to evaluate some relevant properties of concrete in the hardened state.It was found that the strength and durability of concrete containing marble waste powder tend to decline for replacement ratios over 10% but satisfactory results were obtained below that level of replacement. Regarding the use of silica fume, it was observed that it improves the strength and durability of concrete with marble waste powder by offsetting the decline of its properties relative to conventional concrete. In addition to obtaining approximately the same results as the original concrete mix, using 20% marble waste powder and 10% silica fume as partial replacement of cement resulted in a 30% cement reduction which decreases the harmful effects of cement industry on the environment.