Influence of super absorbent polymer on mechanical, rheological, durability, and microstructural properties of self‐compacting concrete using non‐biodegradable granite pulver

Abstract

AbstractThis paper presents an experimental study to investigate the influence of super absorbent polymer (SAP) on mechanical, rheological, durability, and microstructural properties of self‐compacting concrete using a comparatively new environmental waste known as granite pulver (GP). The effectiveness of replacing cement by GP at 5, 10, 15, and 20% by weight, was investigated. The SAPs were used at volume fractions of 0.1 to 1% to the GP‐SSC (Granite Pulver‐Self‐cured Self‐compacting Concrete) mixtures to counteract self‐desiccation during the hydration of concrete. Along with the SAP, super plasticizer, and flyash (FA) were also added to improve the workability of the GP‐SSC mixtures. The physical, chemical, and microstructural properties of the cement, GP and flyash samples were determined. From the results, it was found that the GPs along with the SAPs increases the compressive strength by around 0.1%, when a replacement of cement by GP up to 15% was made with an addition of 0.3% of SAP. Similarly, an increase of 9.1% in flexural strength was observed for GP‐SSC mixtures, when 15% of GP along with 0.4% of SAP was added. The addition of SAP beyond 0.4% in GP‐SSC mixtures affects the filling and passing abilities. Therefore, with optimal replacement of cement by GP, the mechanical and durability properties of GP‐SSC mixtures can be improved, reducing the detrimental effects of GPs from the environment. Influence of SAP and GP waste in GP‐SSC mixtures. Analyzed mechanical, rheological, durability, and microstructural properties. Replacement of cement by GP up to 15% is favorable. 0.3% of SAP addition improves the pore structure and strength. Morphological and mineralogical studies prove GP as an effective cement replacement.