Inspection of the mechanical and durability behavior of concrete developed using M-sand

Abstract

In response to the increasing pressures of urbanization on the construction industry and the subsequent rise in concrete production, which leads to the overexploitation of river sand (R-sand), this research addresses the imperative of enhancing mechanical properties while aligning with environmental considerations by choosing manufactured sand (M-sand) as a sustainable replacement for R-sand. The study began by analyzing essential parameters, including fresh densities and mechanical concrete properties, and subsequently investigated durability aspects through assessments of permeability, acid, and sulphate resistance effects in M-sand concrete mixes. Through systematic replacements of R-sand with M-sand, ranging from 0% to 100% at 25% intervals, using the widely employed M 30 grade, the research evaluated performance. Fresh properties analysis revealed that M-sand concrete exhibited lower workability but increased fresh density compared to R-sand concrete. Mechanical strength tests indicated that the incorporation of M-sand led to enhanced compressive, flexural, and tensile strength, with the fine texture and unique bonding properties of M-sand particles playing a crucial role. Permeability assessments demonstrated reduced water penetration in M-sand concrete, decreasing from 69.5 mm to 64.5 mm. This improvement was attributed to a denser concrete structure resulting from the filler effect of M-sand. Moreover, the study highlighted M-sand's 15% and 12% greater resistance against sulphate and acid exposure, respectively, further corroborated by enhanced mass retention and compressive strength in harsh chemical environments.