Performance evaluation of geopolymer concrete with waste granite powder as a sustainable alternative to sand

Abstract The control and disposal of solid waste pose significant global challenges, particularly in the management of waste granite powder (WGP), a by-product of granite processing industries. Addressing this issue, the present study investigates the potential of WGP as a partial substitute for fine aggregate in concrete, with replacement levels up to 50%. The research emphasizes the need for sustainable construction materials and explores the viability of using industrial waste to reduce environmental impact and resource depletion. Novel aspects of this study include the comprehensive evaluation of the physical and chemical characteristics of fine aggregate and WGP through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyses. The study also examines the fresh and mechanical properties of concrete, such as workability, compressive strength, flexural strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), and modulus of elasticity to determine the optimum WGP substitution level. The findings reveal that mechanical strength improves with WGP replacement levels of up to 40%, highlighting the potential of WGP in enhancing concrete performance. Furthermore, correlations between different mechanical properties are analyzed, providing a deeper understanding of the behavior of WGP-blended concrete. In addition to technical evaluations, a detailed cost analysis is conducted to assess the economic feasibility of using WGP in concrete production. The results indicate that incorporating WGP not only offers environmental benefits by reducing waste but also provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional fine aggregate. Thus, substituting sand with WGP in concrete emerges as a sustainable solution, delivering comparable or superior mechanical properties while contributing to environmental conservation and cost reduction.