Strength, permeation, freeze-thaw resistance, and microstructural properties of self-compacting concrete containing sandstone waste

Abstract

This investigation aims to identify the possible utilization of sandstone slurry (SS) as an eco-friendly alternative material in self-compacting concrete (SCC). The SCC mixes made with six percentages (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30) of SS as partial substitution of Portland Pozzolana cement (PPC). Characterization of SS has been performing through the microscopic image, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, methylene blue, and particle size distribution (PSD) analysis. The modified concrete’s strength parameters report via microstructure, compressive strength, pull-off strength, and flexural tensile strength. Sorptivity, carbonation, chloride ion penetration, mercury intrusion porosimetry, and freeze and thaw tests measure durability, along with the economic indexes. The compressive strength, flexural strength, and pull-off strength results of the modified concrete were lower than that of the control concrete. However, it improved gradually with increased curing ages. Mercury intrusion porosimetry test revealed an enhancement in the porosity with an increment in the percentage of SS, leading to an augmentation in the capillary water absorption capacity, depth of carbonation, and chloride penetration. However, at lower water to powder ratio (0.33) and up to 15% of SS content, the durability test results commensurate with that of the control concrete, also supported by microstructural analysis. The specimens were highly resistant against freeze and thaw cycles from weight loss as well compressive strength point of view. Economic index analysis shows a decrement in the index values with an increment in the SS content. It deduces that the partial substitution of SS up to 15% may recommend for structural concrete applications.