Ferrock cement and oxalic acid for enhanced concrete strength and durability against sulphate attack

Abstract

Concrete is widely known for being plentiful, durable, and strong, but it can be damaged by different chemicals and environments, that can shorten its lifespan. Consequently, there is a growing interest among researchers to find more durable, stronger, and environmentally friendly cement alternatives. This study focuses on evaluating the workability, strength, durability properties, and morphological aspects of ferrock cement-based concrete, which involves substituting varying percentages of ferrock cement (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) for conventional cement. Ferrock, comprising Iron Powder, Fly Ash, Lime Powder, and glass powder offers pozzolanic potential as a sustainable cement substitute. Additionally, oxalic acid is introduced into the mixes to explore its role in catalyzing reactions between CO2 and water, thereby enhancing the concrete’s strength and durability. Compressive and flexural strength are analyzed after replacing the cement with ferrock, with and without oxalic acid, while durability is assessed through water absorption and resistance to sodium sulphate solution after 28 days of curing. Nine sets of mixes, all with a consistent water-cement ratio of 0.49, are investigated. Results indicate that concrete containing ferrock-based cement, particularly with oxalic acid, exhibits superior strength and enhanced resistance to sulphate attack. The addition of 5% and 10% ferrock with the integration of oxalic acid has 32.28% and 38.7% of compressive strength respectively, the same proportion has 0.2% and 0.1% of mass loss regarding resistance to sulphate attack. Notably, a 10% ferrock replacement with oxalic acid demonstrates the highest performance of concrete as determined by the multi-decision methods.