Freeze-thaw resistance of self-compacting concrete with marble powder & cement kiln dust filler powders and metakaolin

Abstract Marble powder (MP) and cement kiln dust (CKD) are important industrial by-products generated in large quantities, both with low recycling rates. Contrary to common utilization practices and research trends—such as using MP in plasters and assessing CKD as a supplementary cementitious material—this paper explores their potential use as inert fillers in self-compacting concrete (SCC). This approach, especially for CKD, offers more efficient recycling routes without compromising strength or durability. SCC mixtures of low environmental and economic cost were produced using MP and CKD as filler powder and metakaolin (MK) as a cement substitute (10% and 20% by mass). Each composition was evaluated for fresh properties, compressive strength, water permeability, and freeze–thaw (F-T) resistance. Mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to interpret these phenomena. Although CKD incorporation slightly increased strength, it reduced F-T resistance, while MK improved strength, permeability, and micromorphology, enhancing SCC’s durability.