Abstract

This study explores the use of quarry waste powders as partial replacements for cement in concrete, aiming to improve the sustainability of construction materials. Three types of powders—granite (GP), limestone (LP), and quartz (QP)—were used to replace 20% of cement by mass in concrete mixes. The research evaluates the impact of these substitutions on fresh properties, mechanical performance, durability under sulphate attack, and overall environmental and economic efficiency. Experimental tests included slump flow, setting time, compressive strength at 28 and 90 days, and resistance to sulphate-induced mass and strength loss. Additionally, carbon dioxide emissions and material costs were calculated based on unit values for each component, and two performance indicators—Effective Cost Ratio (ECR) and Effective Emission Ratio (EER)—were introduced. The results show that GP20 offered the most favourable performance, balancing strength, durability, and sustainability. LP20 improved workability but showed lower strength and reduced durability. QP20 demonstrated moderate strength and improved sulphate resistance but required careful mix design. All quarry waste-modified mixes significantly reduced cost and embodied emissions compared to the reference concrete. The findings highlight the potential of quarry wastes as viable, low-impact supplementary materials in cementitious composites and support their integration into circular economy strategies for the construction industry.

Keywords

cost analysis, emission analysis, mechanical performance, quarry powders wastes.

DOI

10.5703/1288284318167

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Towards the Use of Quarry Wastes in Cementitious Composites for Sustainable Construction

This study explores the use of quarry waste powders as partial replacements for cement in concrete, aiming to improve the sustainability of construction materials. Three types of powders—granite (GP), limestone (LP), and quartz (QP)—were used to replace 20% of cement by mass in concrete mixes. The research evaluates the impact of these substitutions on fresh properties, mechanical performance, durability under sulphate attack, and overall environmental and economic efficiency. Experimental tests included slump flow, setting time, compressive strength at 28 and 90 days, and resistance to sulphate-induced mass and strength loss. Additionally, carbon dioxide emissions and material costs were calculated based on unit values for each component, and two performance indicators—Effective Cost Ratio (ECR) and Effective Emission Ratio (EER)—were introduced. The results show that GP20 offered the most favourable performance, balancing strength, durability, and sustainability. LP20 improved workability but showed lower strength and reduced durability. QP20 demonstrated moderate strength and improved sulphate resistance but required careful mix design. All quarry waste-modified mixes significantly reduced cost and embodied emissions compared to the reference concrete. The findings highlight the potential of quarry wastes as viable, low-impact supplementary materials in cementitious composites and support their integration into circular economy strategies for the construction industry.