Utilizing Bentonite Clay as a Pozzolanic Material to Reduce Cement Consumption and Cost in Construction Industry

Abstract

This research focuses on finding an alternative to expensive cement in the construction industry in Pakistan by utilizing pozzolanic materials, specifically volcanic ash/bentonite clay. By replacing a portion of the cement with bentonite (10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%), the study demonstrates the potential to reduce the net consumption and cost of cement while also contributing to more durable concrete and reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Physical properties such as setting time and fineness were studied, and the compressive, flexural, and split tensile strength of the mixes were compared at 7 and 28 days of curing. While the strength of the mixes decreased with the successive addition of bentonite, the rate of reduction was much lower at 28 days than at 7 days. The results validate the feasibility of developing low-cost concrete using bentonite as a partial replacement for cement.