Properties Evaluation of Self Compacting Concrete Made with Industrial By-Products

Abstract

Urbanization with advanced technologies should be economic, sooner operational, and sustainable. In addition to reducing construction time, modern technologies should utilize various left-over materials or by-products to save budget and the environment. The present study examines the potential of using Phosphogypsum, an industrial by-product, in concrete as an environment-friendly, sustainable solution. Various percentages (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) of Phosphogypsum have been used to replace Portland cement to produce cost-effective SCC with favorable properties and strength. Conplast SP430 G8 superplasticizer has been used at a fixed amount as a chemical admixture. Laboratory tests have been performed to analyze various material properties together with conducting slump flow test, V-funnel test, and L-box test to evaluate the workability of the SCC. Compressive strength test results at 3-, 7-, 14-, and 28-days’ concrete reveals that light replacement of cement with Phosphogypsum may increase the strength, whereas higher replacement would result in a decrease in strength. The present study concludes that a 10% replacement of cement with Phosphogypsum would provide the best result with increased compressive strength. This finding eventually confirms the use of Phosphogypsum, an industrial by-product, in concrete without compromising its strength with a reduction of time and construction cost.