Optimizing and Predicting the Performance of Lateritic Concrete Enhanced with PCE-Superplasticizers Using Response Surface Methodology

This research employed response surface methodology (RSM) to optimise lateritic concrete with the inclusion of HYDROPLAST 240GP, a PCE superplasticizer, to improve workability and compressive strength while reducing the deleterious impacts of the clay content in laterite. Experimental mixtures with different laterite replacement levels (7.5–30%) of sand fine aggregates and superplasticizer dosages (0.8–1.5%) were assessed were used. compressive strength tests at 7 and 28 days, and microstructural analyses employing SEM, EDX, and XRD techniques were done. The combination of 7.5% laterite replacement and 1.15% HYDROPLAST 240GP resulted in the highest 28-day compressive strength of 22.6 N/mm², in contrast to 22.09 N/mm² observed in the control sample. SEM, EDX, and XRD analyses showed denser microstructure characterised by reduced porosity, increased calcium silicate hydrate formation, improved hydration products, and a uniform distribution of elements in the optimised mix. The RSM model showed that enhancing laterite replacement at 13–15% with a superplasticizer dosage of approximately 1.15% improved strength and gave good workability. The findings indicate that HYDROPLAST 240GP and RSM effectively optimised lateritic concrete mix designs, providing a cost-efficient and sustainable alternative appropriate for laterite-rich areas.