Sustainable admixtures to enhance long-term strength and durability properties of eco-concrete: an innovative use of Saudi agro-industrial by-products

Abstract

Purpose

Low-carbon concrete represents a new direction in mitigating the global warming effects caused by clinker manufacturing. Utilizing Saudi agro-industrial by-products as an alternative to cement is a key support in reducing clinker production and promoting innovation in infrastructure and circular economy concepts, toward decarbonization in the construction industry. The use of fly ash (FA) as a cement alternative has been researched and proven effective in enhancing the durability of FA-based concrete, especially at lower replacement levels. However, at higher replacement levels, a noticeable impediment in mechanical strength indicators limits the use of this material.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, low-carbon concrete mixes were designed by replacing 50% of the cement with FA. Varying ratios of nano-sized glass powder (4 and 6% of cement weight) were used as nanomaterial additives to enhance the mechanical properties and durability of the designed concrete. In addition, a 10% of the mixing water was replaced with EMs dosage.

Findings

The results obtained showed a significant positive impact on resistance and durability properties when replacing 10% of the mixing water with effective microorganisms (EMs) broth and incorporating nanomaterial additives. The optimal mix ratios were those designed with 10% EMs and 4–6% nano-sized glass powder additives. However, it can be concluded that advancements in eco-friendly concrete additive technologies have made significant contributions to the development of sophisticated concrete varieties.

Originality/value

This study focused at developing nanomaterial additives from Saudi industrial wastes and at presenting a cost-effective and feasible solution for enhancing the properties of FA-based concrete. It has also been found that the inclusion of EMs contributes effectively to enhancing the concrete's resistance properties.

Citation

Amran, M. and Onaizi, A. (2024), "Sustainable admixtures to enhance long-term strength and durability properties of eco-concrete: an innovative use of Saudi agro-industrial by-products", International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJBPA-03-2024-0069