Investigating mechanical and durability aspects of concrete incorporating Wollastonite and bottom ash

Abstract

The use of natural resources and carbon dioxide emission is a major environmental issue, particularly in the manufacturing of cement plants where emissions are high and contribute to global warming. This has led to a need for alternative resources to decrease cement consumption. The use of natural sand in construction is also a problem due to its limited availability and high cost. The study suggests that Wollastonite, a natural mineral, and Bottom ash, thermal power plant waste, can replace cement and sand respectively in concrete. The current study aims to evaluate the mechanical properties (such as compression, flexural, and abrasion resistance) and durability property (permeability) of concrete by using Wollastonite and Bottom ash as replacements for cement and sand. Seven concrete mixes were prepared with varying levels of Wollastonite and Bottom ash replacement, and their mechanical properties were tested. The study found that replacing cement with 10% of Wollastonite and sand with 10% of Bottom ash can enhances the mechanical and durability performance of concrete. Bottom ash has the ability to be used in concrete at a particular amount to improve its qualities.