New insights into the production of sustainable synthetic aggregates and their microstructural evaluation

Abstract

In this study, a novel technique for producing synthetic aggregates using industrial by-products was experimentally investigated. Taguchi method is used to identify the optimum mix design proportion to develop durable synthetic aggregates. For this, different combinations of quaternary binders including ordinary Portland cement, ground granulated blast furnace slag, metakaolin, and lime powder was used. The obtained results revealed that the synthetic aggregates prepared with optimized mortar mix enhanced the compressive strength by 5.9%. Then the performance of synthetic aggregates was evaluated based on their mechanical and durability properties. Microstructural properties of the produced aggregates were examined. The results showed that optimum mix is highly effective than control mix. The manufactured synthetic aggregates are in accordance with the ASTM C 330 standard requirements. Therefore, our study contributes to the advancement in the sustainability by developing a method for producing synthetic aggregates from industrial byproducts.