Properties of concrete containing polished granite waste as partial substitution of coarse aggregate

Abstract

Disposal of solid waste materials is a great concern in cities all around the world. Some of these waste materials are not biodegradable, which often leads to disposal crisis and environmental pollution. Many efforts are being made for the recycling of different types of solid wastes with a view to utilize them in the production of various construction materials. The granite stone industries produces vast amount of by-product rock waste and as a result, many residential and agricultural areas are settled over the landfills which are basically composed of these waste materials. This paper reveals the use of polished granite waste from discarded tiles as a partial replacement for coarse aggregates in cement concrete. It was observed that the incorporation of polished granite waste in concrete decreases the compressive, flexural tensile and pull-off strength, while better results were observed for water absorption, abrasion and water permeability. The concrete containing polished granite waste, substituted up to 20% of natural coarse aggregate could be recommended for all applications and the substitution from 20% to 40% could be recommended for non-structural applications, pavement etc.