Utilization of Magnesium-Rich Synthetic Gypsum as Partial Replacement Material in Concrete

Abstract

The high demand of concrete has increased the rate of the ecosystem as well as increase the carbon emissions of the cement industry. The rapid growth of construction puts a severe strain on our natural resources and endangers the environment. Therefore, there is a pressing need for a green alternative that will protect the environment and preserve resources. Hence, this study is carried out to reduce the usage of cement in concrete production. The new replacement technique utilized the magnesium-rich synthetic gypsum (MRSG) and silica fume (SF). The MRSG and SF will be used as partial replacement of cement in the range of 5% to 30% with a water to cement ratio of 0.55. These mixtures were formed into cube specimens of 100 x 100 x 100 mm size. Then, the compressive strength was conducted to determine the strength of the specimens. The results indicated that 10% cement replacement from 5% of MRSG residue and 5% of SF gives an optimum strength compared to the control specimen with 24.6 MPa and 25.8 MPa, respectively. In addition, the increased percentage of MRSG residue, increased the water absorption of the mix. The replacement of MRSG residue in concrete would not only provide economic relief but also help to create a sustainable and pollution-free environment as the disposing of this waste creates many inconveniences to the living organism.