Durability enhancement in self-compacting sand concrete using mineral additives

Purpose The study aimed to explore the effects of mineral admixtures – especially limestone filler (LF), brick powder (BP) and ceramic powder (CP) – on the performance of self-compacting sand concrete (SCSC). It studies their effect on mechanical properties and mass loss when exposed to acidic solutions (H2SO4 5% and HCl 5%) over periods of 28, 90 and 180 days. The study seeks to develop SCSC technology by taking advantage of locally available sand resources. Design/methodology/approach Using an experimental design, the study explores different formulation parameters, including the use of silty sand (AS) and dune sand (DS) in fixed proportions, where AS constitutes 70% and DS 30% of the total sand content. The superplasticizer ratio (SP) and water-to-binder ratio (W/B) are constant with varying amounts of mineral additives. The study immerses SCSC samples in acidic solutions (5% H2SO4 and 5% HCl) for 28, 90, and 180 days to evaluate mass loss and mechanical properties. This endeavor to advance such concrete technology is motivated by the desire to incorporate sand concrete into the realm of self-compacting concrete technology while also harnessing the advantages of locally available sand resources, particularly dune sand, which is abundant in the southern regions of Algeria. Findings SCSC results with mineral additives showed enhanced resistance in both tensile and compression tests, indicating improved durability compared to the reference sample without additives. However, excessive proportions of BP (>60%) or CP led to exceptions in this trend An exception to this trend was observed when BP was added in proportions exceeding 60% or when CP, indicating potential limitations in some additive formulations. Overall, the research provides valuable insights into improving the performance and durability of SCSC through the strategic incorporation of mineral admixtures, contributing to advances in self-compacting concrete technology. Originality/value 1 – Valorization of local materials and recycling of waste: DS, LF, BP and CP, which are available in great quantities in the south of Algeria; 2 – Combination, at the same time, of alluvial sand and dune sand as aggregate and LF, BP and CP as filler. 3 – Application of the design of experiments method methodology for the optimization of these elements of the new sand concrete studied. The new building material elaborated present indeed a technical, economic and environmental interest.