Effect of the use nickeliferous laterite and pumice as additives in the performance and durability of the Portland cement

Abstract

This work evaluated the pozzolanic behavior of the niqueliferous laterite of Cerromatoso (Córdoba) and the pumice of Cemex (Boyacá), based on the NTC standards for fine aggregates. The mortars were prepared with additions of 2.5%, 5% and 10% as substitutes of type I Portland cement, which tested to extreme environments (high temperatures and chemical attacks with H2SO4 y MgSO4). Results demonstrates how these alternative materials increase or decrease their puzolanic degree, as well as the effect of these additives in the mortar mixtures with the time, demonstrating similar properties respect to mortars prepared with type I Portland cement. Therefore, the mortars have an acceptable answer under the tested conditions, although it is possible to improve their workability and durability, collaborating not only with of the energy saving in the production of type I Portland cement but also in the use of alternative additives that let to mitigate the environmental impact produced by the cement industry.