Research on the Impact of Inert and Hydraulic Additives on Self-compacting Concrete Utilizing Brick Aggregate

Abstract

Self-compacting concrete (SSC) is a novel concrete capable of flowing under its own weight without the need for concrete vibration, capable of achieving full compaction and filling the formwork despite the presence of packed reinforcement. Ongoing research is focused on substituting different components of concrete to develop stronger and more cost-effective alternatives. This study explores the replacement of natural stones with brick aggregate, while also partially substituting ordinary Portland cement (OPC) with stone dust and low-grade recycled fines (LRF), which are byproducts from the steel manufacturing industry. The coarse aggregate utilized in this research was derived from high-quality, readily available GAS-burned brick. The fineness of the coarse aggregate was assessed using ASTM C136 (2019), a widely recognized testing method. The ASTM C127 (2015) standard testing procedure was employed to determine the absorption capacity of the coarse aggregate. A feasibility study was carried out to assess the production of self-compacting concrete (SCC) utilizing brick aggregate. The incorporation of marble dust consistently improves workability, particularly at the 10% level, which aids in the handling and placement of SCC while meeting EFNARC criteria for self-compacting characteristics. Low-grade recycled fines (LRF) contribute to an increase in flowability and workability to a moderate extent when used at 5% to 10%.  Marble dust proves to be a more effective option for enhancing the modulus of elasticity in SCC, as evidenced by the reduction in modulus of elasticity across all levels of LRF replacement.