Revista Română de Materiale / Romanian Journal of Materials 2020, 50(3), 369 - 378 369

DURABILITY PROPERTIES OF SELF-COMPACTING CONCRETE USING

DIFFERENT MINERAL POWDERS ADDITIONS IN TERNARY BLENDS

PEERZADA DANISH, MOHAN GANESH G. 

School of Civil Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu- India

This investigation was carried out to find the effect of various admixtures on the durability properties of Self-
Compacting Concrete (SCC) with ternary blends of powders. In this investigation SCC was prepared with Metakaolin (MK), Fly
Ash (FA) as partial replacement of cement and Waste Marble Powder (WMP) as a filler material (replacing partial the sand). The
MK and FA contains higher concentrations of Silica and Alumina and are therefore considered as congenial Supplementary
Cementing Materials (SCM’s). Seven different proportions of MK were used in this investigation. The partial replacement of 15%
FA with cement was kept constant for all the mixes (M1- M7) except control mix (M0). The efficiency of FA was evaluated by
designing a control mix with 15% FA substitution (M8) of cement. The fine aggregate was replaced partially by 20% WMP. A total
of nine mixes were designed. The specimens were tested in the hardened state at different ages for assessing the durability
characteristics of SCC such as water absorption and porosity, sorptivity and resistance to acid attack. The results of this
investigation revealed that the influence of above admixtures used was quite effective in production SCC with improved
durability properties.

Keywords: Self-compacting concrete (SCC); Admixtures; Fly Ash (FA); Metakaolin (MK); Waste Marble Powder (WMP); Durability.

1. Introduction activity and filling effect [5,6].

In this study which forms a part of wide
The development of Self-Compacting research investigation on SCC, the Supplementary
concrete (SCC) was a milestone in the history of Cementing Materials (SCM’s) like Metakaolin and
concrete industry. SCC flows over a long distance Fly Ash were used. Besides the Waste Marble
due to its own weight without segregation and Powder (WMP) was used as sand replacement
bleeding. It does not need any external vibration for (partial). In order to achieve the fluidity and
compaction. This revolutionary concrete was first cohesiveness of the SCC, Poly Carboxyl Ether
introduced in the construction industry in 1988 [1] (PCE) based superplasticizer was used [7]. The
and had a significant impact on the placement of bleeding and segregation of SCC was reduced with
concrete in particular and on construction process the use of Viscosity Modifying Admixture (VMA)
in general. SCC has many advantages in [8,9].
comparison with normal concrete such as allowing The calcination of Kaolinitic clay at a
complex forms in structural design, reduction of moderate temperature of 650-800oC results in the
noise pollution in absence of vibrators, decrease in formation of Metakaolin. MK being thermally
construction time, better surface finish, activated pozzolanic material is characterized by its
improvement in strength and durability and fewer high reactivity with Ca(OH)2 and its capacity to
work hazards [2]. SCC is believed to lower the accelerate cement hydration. The use of
chances of corrosion in reinforced structures, metakaolin as a pozzolanic material has gained
besides restricting the segregation and importance in the cement or concrete after early
honeycombing of concrete by eliminating poor 1980’s [10,11]. Metakaolin contains higher
workmanship [3]. concentrations of Silica and Alumina to the tune of
In terms of the EFNARC specifications EN 50-55% SiO2 and 40-45% Al2O3 [12], which
206-1: 2013 [4], the durability properties are of contribute to its significant pozzolanic action
prime importance for judging the performance of compared to other SCM’s. This pozzolan reacts
SCC in addition to the mechanical properties. with CH and forms additional Calcium Silicate
During the last two to three decades the Hydrate (C-S-H gel). The higher Calcium Silica
researchers have made efforts to produce SCC ratio of this additional C-S-H gel produced leads to
with enhanced mechanical as well as durability the improvement of the microstructure of the
properties with the incorporation of admixtures. The concrete and finally enhancing the overall strength
addition of mineral admixtures can produce more of the concrete, chloride ion diffusivity,
cohesive, consistent and dense concrete resulting permeability, porosity and resistance against
in reducing of permeability and increasing its freezing and thawing [13, 14]. Moreover, this
hardened properties due to their high pozzolanic pozzolan due to the micro filler effect densifies the


Autor corespondent/Corresponding author,
E-mail: [email protected]
370 Peerzada Danish, Mohan Ganesh G./ Durability properties of self – compacting concrete using different mineral
powders additions in ternary blends

Interfacial Transition Zone (ITZ) by its significant during the processing of marble in the factories or
contribution to filling of small pores and voids. This in queries and the quantity is so high, that it is
action of the MK is referred as its physical action almost impossible to manage its storage. As a
[15]. The production process of MK involves a very result, this marble waste gets accumulated and
little emission of carbon dioxide, making it as consequently adds to the environmental pollution
environment friendly and sustainable material. The [25]. Environmental pollution, environmental
durability of the concrete is enhanced with the use health, and economic losses are the three major
of MK and a decline in overall emission of carbon concerns posed by the accumulation of waste
dioxide is significantly achieved. In a study, the use marble powder. Thus, it is essential to find some
of MK reduced permeability with an improvement in means where this marble waste sludge can be re-
durability [16]. The resistance of SCC to sulphate used [26, 27]. In a marble block which weighs
attack and chloride penetration were reported with about 15-20 tons, about 70 percent is wasted
the higher replacements of MK content. A during manufacturing process of marble [28]. The
decrease in water absorption was also reported use of the Waste Marble Powder (WMP) in
[17]. An increase in the resistance against cementitious products has gained the attention of
sorptivity and a reduction in chloride penetration, many researchers who have been investigated the
open porosity and gas permeability was reported use of WMP to partially replace sand or cement in
with the use of MK as partial replacement of these products [26, 27, 29]. It was observed that
cement at different percentages [18]. The use of 10% of WMP used as sand replacement (partial)
10% MK as partial replacement of cement was more effective than that of the partial cement
significantly improved the strength and durability of replacement [30]. The optimum percentage of
SCC [7, 18]. WMP as partial replacement for cement by most of
Fly Ash (FA) is a by-product obtained from the researchers has been found to be 10% [31-33].
burning of coal in thermal power stations. FA is a The increase in the percentage of WMP used as
pozzolanic mineral admixture and is used as a sand replacement in SCC has resulted in
partial replacement of cement in SCC because of increasing the compressive strength, modulus of
its pozzolanic properties. The addition of FA in elasticity with reduced sorptivity [34]. Although
SCC as partial replacement of cement has been most of the researchers have used WMP in
observed to promote workability and lessen the concrete but main problem confronted in this
cracking because of the lower heat of hydration. context is high powder fineness. As such
The concrete in which FA is used as cement superplasticizers are used to curtail the
replacement (partial) takes more time to gain the requirement of water in SCC. On the other hand,
maximum strength than the normal concrete made the cohesiveness of SCC is enhanced due to the
with Portland cement (PC) due to its slow high fineness of these powders [35-37]. The
pozzolanic reaction. The use of FA in SCC Portland cement contributes to the major portion of
increases the rheological properties of SCC and CO2 emission into the atmosphere which leads to
reduces the demand of water due to its small adverse environmental impact. So many
spherical shape [19]. The workability of the super approaches of reduction in cement content in SCC
flowing concrete was greatly achieved by 30 have been studied with the aim of reducing
percent FA replacement of cement [20]. The negative environmental impacts [38, 39].
reactivity of SCC is increased with the addition of
FA which enhances the compressive strength, 2. Research significance
improves durability and reduces drying of SCC
[21]. The decrease in bleeding and developing This research investigation attempts to
constancy has also been reported with the use of find out the effect of mineral admixtures in SCC in
FA in SCC [22]. In a study [23] FA was used in terms of assessing its durability characteristics.
SCC at 0-80 % of the cement replacement and an The availability of the data regarding the durability
enhancement of water absorption was noticed with characteristics of SCC containing various
the increase in the levels of FA replacements. The admixtures forms the basis for application of SCC
same study showed a decrease in compressive in concrete industry. A limited research information
strength. Therefore, an inverse relationship about the use of mineral admixtures in SCC in
between water absorption and strength was terms of durability considerations is available
suggested. Similar variations between strength and which therefore warrants further research in the
sorptivity were also observed [24]. subject. As such a detailed investigation was
Among the different forms of stones used carried out to study the durability characteristics of
as building materials, marble is one of the famous, SCC using different mineral additions in ternary
attractive and preferred stone and as such marble blends of powders. The results of this investigation
industry has a significant market throughout the covering the durability properties of SCC are
globe. A huge quantity of marble waste is produced therefore presented in this paper.
Peerzada Danish, Mohan Ganesh G./ Durability properties of self – compacting concrete using different mineral 371
powders additions in ternary blends

3. Experimental Investigations Table 3

Physical Properties of sand, WMP and gravel
Properties Fine WMP Coarse
3.1 Materials Aggregate Aggregate
OPC (Ordinary Portland cement) which Specific gravity 2.58 2.68 2.65
confirmed to IS 12269:2009 [40] of 53 grade was Fineness 2.66 2.51 5.8
utilized in this study. Gravel with a size of 10 and modulus (%)
Water 1.0 1.36 0.65
12.5 mm and locally available river sand were used absorption (%)
as coarse and fine aggregate respectively which Loosely piled 1497 1280 1399
satisfied the requirement for grading zone II of IS: dry density
383-2016 [41]. Metakaolin (MK) confirming to (Kg/m3)
ASTM C 618 [42] of class N pozzolana was used. Dry Density 1580 1365 1508
(Kg/m3)
Class C Fly Ash (FA) collected from thermal power Aggregate - - 11.95
plant Neyveli Lignite Corporation Indian Limited Impact Value
(NLC), Neyveli was used (IS 3812:2003) [43]. Aggregate - - 23.98
Waste Marble Powder (WMP) procured from Crushing Value
marble cutting factory near Vellore, Tamil Nadu,
India was used. In order to gain high workability
Polycarboxylic Ether (PCE) based Superplasticizer Table 4
(IS: 9013, 2014) [44] was used. Viscosity Modifying Properties of Superplasticizer (HRWRA) and VMA
Admixture (VMA) was used to obtain bleed free Properties HRWRA VMA
Specific gravity 1.08 -
mixes. The properties of all the constituent Aspect Reddish Brown Colourless free
materials are depicted in Table 1-4. The micro- Liquid flowing liquid
structure and chemical composition of OPC, MK, pH ≥6 ≥ 6 at 25 oC
FA and WMP was studied by using Scanning Relative Density 1.08 ± 0.02 at 1.01 ± 0.01 at
Electron Microscopic (SEM) and EDAX. Also, the 25oC 25oC
Chloride ion < 0.2% < 0.2%
shape and texture of the particles was identified by content
taking the images of the specimens at various * As per the manufacturer’s manual
magnifications. The SEM images and EDAX
spectra of OPC, MK, FA and WMP are shown in
Figure 1.
Table 1
Chemical compositions (%) of OPC, MK, FA and WMP using
EDAX.
Chemical OPC Metakaolin Fly Ash WMP
Compound
Calcium 62.90 0.09 5.30 55.15
oxide (CaO)
Silica oxide 20.50 52.0 51.55 3.12
(SiO2)
Aluminium 5.10 46.0 15.30 0.35
oxide (Al2O3)
Iron oxide 3.24 0.60 10.05 0.09
(Fe2O3)
Magnesium 1.10 0.03 0.50 -
oxide (MgO) (a) Cement
Suplhur 2.01 0.30 0.30 -
anhdrite
(SO3)
Chloride (Cl) 0.002 - - -
Insoluble 0.25 - - -
residue
Loss on 1.80 1.00 2.50 38.5
ignition (LOI)

Table 2
Physical Properties of OPC, MK and FA
Properties OPC Metakaolin Fly Ash
Particle average 20-100 1.2- 2.5 4-7
size, µm
Specific gravity 3.15 2.60 2.18
Blaine’s fineness 256 19-20 330
(m2/Kg)
Soundness 0.02 0.010 0.017
(Autoclave %) (b) Metakaolin
Residue on 45 - 0.4 17.6
micron sieve, %
372 Peerzada Danish, Mohan Ganesh G./ Durability properties of self – compacting concrete using different mineral
powders additions in ternary blends

with 15% FA (M8) substitution of cement was also

designed. The partial replacement percentages of
FA and WMP were determined on the basis of
studies forming a part of this research
investigation. The mix design is done in such a
way that it follows and comes under the guidelines
of EFNARC [45, 46]. The mix proportions of SCC
are depicted in Table 5.

5. Test Procedures

5.1 Water Absorption

The cube specimens of 100 x 100 x 100
mm sizes were used to perform this test. The
specimens were tested as per ASTM C 642- 13
(c) Fly Ash [47] after different intervals of curing in water. The
cube specimens were oven dried at 105 ± 5 oC till
a constant weight was achieved. After drying, the
specimens were allowed to cool at room
temperature and then weighed (W1). The cooled
specimens were then immediately immersed in
tanks containing tap water. The specimens were
periodically taken out from tank, surface dried and
weighed as shown in Figure 2. This process was
continued till a constant weight was obtained. The
water saturated weight of the specimens was
recorded (W2). The water absorption was worked
out as shown below:
Water Absorption (%) = [(W2–W1) / W1] x 100
Where W1 = Dried weight of cube (Kg)
(d) Waste Marble Powder
W2 = Water Saturated weight of Cube (Kg)
Fig. 1 - SEM images and EDAX spectra of the Materials used.

4. Mix Design
SCC mixtures were designed in such a
way that the binder content was kept fixed at 498
kg/m3 for all SCC mixes with w/b ratio of 0.42. In
order to find out mix design, 65 trial mixes were
carried out and a total of nine SCC mixes including
control mix (M0) were produced for the study.
Cement was partially replaced by seven different
proportions of MK. Viz; 5% (M1), 7.5% (M2), 10%
Fig. 2 - Water Absorption test on concrete cubes
(M3), 12.5% (M4), 15% (M5), 17.5% (M6) and 20%
(M7). The fly ash replacement level was kept
constant at 15% (by the weight of total binder) and
fine aggregate was partially replaced by 20%
WMP. To evaluate the influence of FA, control mix
Table 5
Mix Proportion of SCC
Fine WMP Coarse
Mix Designation Type of mix w/b Cement Metakaolin Fly Ash aggregate (Kg/m3) aggregate S.P. VMA
3 3 3 3 3
(Kg/m ) (Kg/m ) (Kg/m ) (Kg/m ) (Kg/m ) (%) (%)
M0 Control mix 0.42 498 - - 960 - 700 1 0.25
M1 SCC5MK 0.42 398.40 24.90 74.7 768 192 700 1.05 0.35
M2 SCC7.5MK 0.42 385.95 37.35 74.7 768 192 700 1.1 0.40
M3 SCC10MK 0.42 373.50 49.80 74.7 768 192 700 1.25 0.45
M4 SCC12.5MK 0.42 361.05 62.25 74.7 768 192 700 1.30 0.45
M5 SCC15MK 0.42 348.60 74.70 74.7 768 192 700 1.35 0.50
M6 SCC17.5MK 0.42 336.15 87.15 74.7 768 192 700 1.45 0.55
M7 SCC20MK 0.42 323.37 99.60 74.7 768 192 700 1.55 0.60
M8 Control mix 0.42 423.3 - 74.7 960 - 700 0.90 0.25
+15%FA
Peerzada Danish, Mohan Ganesh G./ Durability properties of self – compacting concrete using different mineral 373
powders additions in ternary blends

5.2. Sorptivity
The ingress of water from one side of the
unsatured concrete through capillary pores is
determined by sorptivity. The disc samples were
obtained by cutting the cylinder specimens of sizes
100 x 200 mm with the help of saw cutting machine
as shown in Figure 3. The disc samples of 100 mm
x 50 mm sizes were used for carrying out this test
as per ASTM C 1585-13 [48] after different Fig. 4 - Acid Attack test performed after 28 and 90 days.
intervals of curing. The disc samples were oven
dried at 105 ± 5 oC for 1 day till a constant weight 6. Experimental test results and discussions
of the samples was observed between the two
successive readings. The samples were cooled at 6.1 Water Absorption and volume of permeable
room temperature. The circumferential area of pore space voids
sample was coated with epoxy paint, also the top The resistance of SCC to the ingress of
and circumferential area of the sample was aggressive ions is most vital factor influencing the
wrapped with polythene sheet to prevent durability of SCC. The characteristics of the
evaporation from surface not exposed to water. concrete leading to the absorption indirectly
The initial weight of the sample was recorded and represents the porosity. The result of this study in
the sample was kept on support device maintaining reference to the water absorption is depicted in
1-3 mm level of water above the support device in Table 6 and is shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6.
pan. As soon as the water touched the sample, the There is an appreciable decrease of water
stop watch was started and the readings were absorption in SCC mixes where admixtures have
recorded by taking out the sample from the pan at been used as replacements of cement than in
the time period of 1, 5, 10, 20, 30, 60 mins., and control mix (M0). The pozzolanic reaction takes
each hour for a period of six hours and after 3 days place between Ca(OH)2 and SiO2 to form C-S-H
from the beginning of the test time. The sorptivity gel resulting in denser concrete by filling voids.
(mm/S1/2) of the specimen was worked out from the This is in connate to the findings of (Guneyisi et. al
average of three samples by taking into account 2008) [49] on conventional concrete by justifying
the slope of the water against square root of time. the filling effect of MK as well as its pozzolanic
reaction. Similar findings were also reported by
Kannan and Ganesan (2014) [50] in SCC
containing metakaolin and rice husk ash. The low
water absorption in concrete is considered as
‘good’ concrete durability [51]. The reduced water
absorption of SCC blended with admixtures is
probably due to the minimum connectivity of the
pores and porosity reduction of the mixes. The
Fig. 3 - Sorptivity Test performed after 28 and 90 days. results of this investigations indicate that the
highest water absorption of 4.84% at 28 days and
5.3 Acid Attack 4.04% at 90 days was observed in control mix
The acid attack was carried out as per (M0), whereas the lowest water absorption of
ASTM C 642 for all SCC specimens. The cube 2.02% at 28 days and 1.60% at 90 days was
specimen of 100 x 100 x 100 mm sizes were used observed in M5 mix (15% MK). This was followed
to carry out this test after 28 and 90 days of curing by M4 mix (12.5% MK) where the water absorption
as shown in Figure 4. The specimens were of 2.15% and 2.00% at 28 and 90 days
weighed before their exposure to the acid solution respectively was recorded. The water absorption
containing 2% sulphuric acid (H2SO4). The of 3.28% and 2.86% at 28 and 90 days
specimens were put in the acid solution for eight respectively was observed in M8 (15% FA) which
weeks and the concentration of solution was is significantly lower than control mix (M0). Thus,
maintained by replacing the solution as and when incorporation of MK and FA in SCC mixes was
required. The pH value of acid solution was most appropriate in reducing the water absorption.
maintained in the range 1.4-1.60. After every week The results are in agreement with the results of
the specimens were taken out of acid solution and Siddique and Klaus (2009) [52] who state that MK
rinsed with water to remove the loose surface. The modified pore structure with significant reduction in
specimens were then weighed and the resistance permeability, thus inhibiting the transportation of
of the SCC specimens were then accessed in water and other harmful ions. The water
terms of mass loss and strength loss performance. absorption levels increase with the increase of MK
replacement levels beyond 15%. This is probably
374 Peerzada Danish, Mohan Ganesh G./ Durability properties of self – compacting concrete using different mineral
powders additions in ternary blends

due to MK having higher surface area, lesser and porosity of SCC and ultimately a surge in the
fineness modulus value and ultimate necessity for durability of SCC.
water in the concrete mixing process. The gradual
reduction of the workability of SCC mixes with
increased percentages of MK results in the
creation of voids in the concrete and hence may be
held responsible for poor resistance to water
absorption [50]. The decrease in the absorption
with the positive effect of MK in SCC was also
reported by Madandoust and Mousavi (2012) and
Siddiqui and Klaus (2009) [7,52] in case of ordinary
concrete. A reduction of water absorption by 28%
was reported by Shekarchi et.al (2010) [53] by
incorporating 15% MK as cement replacement.
Table 6
Permeable Properties of various SCC mixtures
Mix Water Volume of Sorptivity
ID Absorption (%) Permeable index
Voids (%) (mm/min1/2) Fig. 5 - Variation in water absorption of SCC
28 90 28 90 28 90
days days days days days days
M0 4.84 4.04 6.97 4.95 0.068 0.039
M1 4.24 3.55 5.71 4.51 0.065 0.035
M2 3.77 3.24 5.15 4.3 0.060 0.030
M3 3.31 3.03 4.5 3.8 0.047 0.026
M4 2.15 2.00 3.52 3.01 0.042 0.021
M5 2.02 1.75 3.45 2.93 0.036 0.015
M6 3.14 2.95 4.52 3.2 0.038 0.018
M7 3.86 3.27 4.6 3.5 0.041 0.021
M8 3.28 2.86 5.2 3.8 0.051 0.031

The results of porosity depicted in Table 6

reveal that the highest porosity was observed in
control mix (M0) and is shown in Figure 7. The
porosity of 6.97% and 4.95% at 28 and 90 days
respectively was found in M0. The use of
admixtures has a positive impact on the porosity in
SCC mixes. A minimum porosity of 3.45% and
Fig. 6 - Variation in water absorption after immersion and
2.93% was attained at 28 and 90 days respectively boiling of SCC
for M5 mix (15% MK) followed by M4 mix (12.5%
MK) having a porosity of 3.52% and 3.01 at 28 and
90 days respectively. A porosity of 5.2% and 3.8%
at 28 and 90 days respectively was found in M8
mix (15% FA) which is significantly lower than
control mix (M0). A direct relationship exists
between durability and water absorption and
porosity. An enhancement in the porosity of the mix
will tend to have more water absorption thus
resulting an expansion in the mix. A porosity
network will be created due to pores in the mix
which will favour passage of water or any other
liquid like sulphuric acid etc. This will result in
lowering the strength of mix and also in
deterioration in its durability. So, the use of the
SCM’s like metakaolin, fly ash and the use of filler
material as waste marble powder in this Fig. 7 - Variation in permeable voids of SCC
investigation has decreased both water absorption
The results depicted in Table 6 and shown in
6.2 Sorptivity Figure 8 and Figure 9. reveal that the water
The property of the concrete to measure absorption through capillary pores was remarkably
the ingression of water through the capillary pores high in controlled mix (M0). The sorptivity for
with respect to time is referred to as sorptivity. So, control mix was observed to be 0.068 and 0.039
the sorptivity is connected with the volume of the mm/min1/2 at the curing age of 28 and 90 days
capillary pores and higher the pore lowest sorptivity respectively. The lowest sorptivity level was
Peerzada Danish, Mohan Ganesh G./ Durability properties of self – compacting concrete using different mineral 375
powders additions in ternary blends

observed in M5 mix (15% MK). In this case a 6.3 Acid Attack

marked improvement in resistance to water The performance of the SCC specimens
absorption through capillary pores in order of 52.94 which were exposed to sulphuric solution was
% and 38.46 % at 28 and 90 days of curing evaluated in terms of weight loss and strength
respectively was observed. Similar improvement loss.
though marginally less than M5 was observed in
M4 mix (12.5%). These results are in consonance 6.3.1 Weight Loss
with the results of Ramenziampour and Bahrami The assessment of change in mass of
(2012) [54] where the investigators observed an SCC specimens exposed to sulphuric acid solution
improved sorptivity (local minimum) for the 10% for certain period of time is most widely accepted
MK replacement of cement. The improvement in method for determine the resistance of concrete
the sorptivity by the partial replacement of cement exposed to this aggressive condition. Figure 10
with MK in SCC is attributed to the fact that the use shows the results as the percent mass loss of SCC
of MK enhances the microstructure by refinement specimens immersed in 2% H2SO4 for eight
of pores through the process of filling [55] and due weeks. The mass loss percent was worked out at
to secondary pozzolanic reaction of MK. The the age of 1, 2, 3, 4, and 8 weeks. The maximum
incorporation of 15% fly ash in M8 mix has weight loss was observed in control mix (M0) at all
improved its sorptivity in comparison with control the ages compared to the SCC mixes blended with
mix (M0). The reasons being that the fly ash admixtures. The maximum weight loss of 23.1%
particles fill up the micro-air voids inside the was observed for the control mix (M0) at 8 weeks.
concrete matrix thereby reducing water absorption. The incorporation of the admixtures in SCC has
Similar effects were observed by the Khatib (2008) reduced the weight loss and a minimum of 8.01%
[23] and Wongkeo et.al (2014) [56]. These results was observed for M5 SCC mix blended with 15%
indicate that the partial replacement of MK in SCC MK followed by the weight loss of 9.52% in case of
plays a vital role in reducing the sorptivity and M4 mix blended with 12.5% MK. Similar trend was
water absorption. observed for M9 SCC mix blended with 15% FA
while 13.11% weight loss was observed after 8
weeks of immersion in H2SO4 solution. Thus, the
incorporation of admixtures like MK, FA and WMP
have significantly contributed to the resistance of
SCC specimens to the attack of sulphuric acid
which is evident from the results depicted in Figure
10.

Fig. 8 - Sorptivity of SCC at 28 Days

Fig. 10 - Weight variation in H2SO4 solution

The results are in consonance with the

investigations carried out by Dinakar et.al 2008
[57]. They replaced cement with high volumes of
FA and observed a reduced weight loss due to the
acid attack with the reduction in cement content,
Fig. 9 - Sorptivity of SCC at 90 Days because of the fact that the reaction compounds
like Calcium hydroxide are less owing to the lesser
376 Peerzada Danish, Mohan Ganesh G./ Durability properties of self – compacting concrete using different mineral
powders additions in ternary blends

cement content during the deterioration process. results are in agreement with the studies of Murthi
The C3A of the cement which is prone to the and Sivakumar (2008) [59]; Chatveera and
intrusion of sulphate ions resulting in the formation Lertwattanaruk (2011) [60] who obtained the
of secondary ettringite is reduced with the use of similar results with the use of other pozzolans like
MK and FA as partial cement replacement. The rice husk ash, fly ash and silica fume in ternary
pozzolanic reaction of the MK also tends to blended forms.
decrease the amount of Ca(OH)2. Also, the
formation of secondary C-S-H gel due to the 7. Conclusions
pozzolanic reaction that refines the pore structure,
reduced the larger capillary pores to smaller ones This investigation was undertaken to determine the
and ultimately blocking these pores plays a key behaviour of SCC with the addition of admixtures.
role in resistance of the concrete to the ingression The durability characteristic of the SCC blended
of harmful chemicals [58]. with mineral additions were assessed and the
following conclusions could be drawn:
6.3.2 Strength Loss • Addition of MK and FA proved to be beneficial for
The strength loss was determined after the reducing the water absorption and porosity of
SCC specimen were exposed to the 2% sulphuric SCC. The water absorption of SCC containing
acid at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 8 weeks as presented in 15% MK (M5) was 2.02% and 1.60% at 28 and 90
Figure 11. days respectively which was minimum among all
the SCC mixes. Similarly, a minimum porosity of
3.45% and 2.93% was attained at 28 and 90 days
respectively for M5 mix.
• The resistance to the water absorption through
capillary pores significantly improved in the MK
blended SCC mixes as compared to control mix. In
M5 mix, a remarkable improvement in the water
absorption through capillary pores in order of
52.94% at 28 days and 38.46% at 90 days was
observed.
• A marked improvement in the resistance to acid
attack was exhibited by the SCC blended with
mineral additions. The minimum weight loss of
8.01% was exhibited by M5 mix at 8 weeks of
exposure to sulphuric acid solution. The
Fig. 11 - Compressive strength variation in H2SO4 solution. compressive strength loss was also influenced
positively for SCC mixes blended with mineral
The results revealed that the compressive additions and a minimum compressive strength
strength of all the SCC mixes gradually decreased loss of 6.9% was observed for M5 mix at 8 weeks
with increase in the exposure periods of these. of exposure to sulphuric acid solution.
However, a lower rate of decrease was observed • The use of WMP as a non-pozzolanic filler
for the SCC mixes blended with admixtures. The material (partially replaced of fine aggregate) in
overall review of the results shows that among all SCC has proved beneficial from economical,
the SCC mixes, the maximum loss of strength was ecological and environmental point of view.
observed for control mix (M0) at each interval of • The utilization of MK and FA provided an
time. The strength loss of 16.35% was found for excellent alternative for reduction of cement
control mix after 8 weeks of acid exposure. Among consumption, thus making the SCC an
all the mixes, the minimum loss of 6.9% environmental friendly concrete.
compressive strength was observed in M5 mix The results demonstrate that MK and FA
followed by 7.03% loss of compressive strength in can provide significant enhancement in respect of
M4 mix after 8 weeks of immersion in H2SO4. The durability properties of SCC. As such the results
SCC blended with FA (M8) has also shown better suggest that an optimum level of 12.5%-15% MK
results compared to control mix (M0) and a loss in and 15% FA combine can be used in SCC to
compressive strength to the extent of 12.13% was harvest the maximum benefits.
observed after 8 weeks of exposure of H2SO4. The
higher resistance to the sulphuric acid attack of MK Acknowledgments
and FA blended mixes in comparison with the The authors feel highly indebted to the Vellore Institute of
Technology, Vellore for their support through SEED GRANT
control mix can be attributed to the higher fund in carrying out the research. The authors are also grateful
pozzolanic reaction of these pozzolans resulting in to Neyveli Lignite Corporation India Limited (NLC), Neyveli for
the production of more hydrates due to which the providing fly ash and to BASF India Limited, Construction
micro structure is refined thereby reducing the rate Chemicals Division, Kancheepuram (Tamil Nadu) for providing
chemical admixtures to undertake the experimental study
of ingress of acid solution into the concrete. These reported in this paper.
Peerzada Danish, Mohan Ganesh G./ Durability properties of self – compacting concrete using different mineral 377
powders additions in ternary blends

REFERENCES

[1]. H. Okamura and M. Ouchi, Self-compacting concrete, J. Adv. Concr. [27]. A. Rana, P. Kalla, and L. J. Csetenyi, Sustainable use of marble
Technol, 2003, 1, 5–15. slurry in concrete, J. Clean. Prod, 2015, 94, 304-311.
[2]. C. Shi and Y. Wu, Mixture proportioning and properties of self- [28]. H. Hebhoub, H. Aoun, M. Belachia, H. Houari and E. Ghorbel, Use
consolidating lightweight concrete containing glass powder, ACI of waste marble aggregates in concrete, Constr. Build. Mater, 2011,
Mater J, 2005, 102(5), 355-363. 25, 1167-1171.
[3]. H. Y. Leung and S. K. Chan, Self-compacting concrete: an [29]. A. A. Aliabdo, A. E. Abd Elmoaty and E. M. Auda, Re-use of waste
introduction, Hong Kong Engineer, 2004, 32 (4), 14–15. marble dust in the production of cement and concrete, Constr. Build.
[4]. EN 206-1. Concrete – Part 1: specification, performance, production Mater, 2014, 50, 28-41.
and conformity. European Committee for Standardization, 2000. [30]. V. Corinaldesi, G. Moricon, and T. R. Naik, Characterization of
[5]. I. P. Sfikas, E. G. Badogiannis and K. G. Trezos, Rheology and marble powder for its use in mortar and concrete, Constr. Build.
mechanical characteristics of self-compacting concrete mixtures Mater, 2010, 24, 113-117.
containing metakaolin, Constr Build Mater, 2014, 64, 121-9. [31]. A. Anwar, J. Ahmad, M. A. Khan, S. Ahmad and S. A. Ahmad,
[6]. F. Cassagnabère, M. Mouret, G. Escadeillas, P. Broilliard and A. Study of compressive strength of concrete by partial replacement of
Bertrand, Metakaolin, a solution for the precast industry to limit the cement with marble dust powder, Int. J. Mech. Eng. Robot, 2014, 2,
clinker content in concrete: mechanical aspects, Constr Build Mater, 2321-5747.
2010, 24, 1109–18. [32]. V. M. Sounthararajan and A. Sivakumar, Effect of the lime content
[7]. R. Madandoust and S. Y. Mousavi, Fresh and hardened properties in marble powder for producing high strength concrete, ARPN J.
of self-compacting concrete containing metakaolin, Constr. Eng. Appl. Sci, 2013, 8, 260-264.
Build.Mater, 2012, 35, 752–760 [33]. K. Vardhan, S. Goyal, R. Siddique and M. Singh, M, Mechanical
[8]. G. Heirman, L. Vandewalle, D. V. Gemert, V. Boel, K. Audenaert, G. properties and microstructural analysis of cement mortar
De Schutter, B. Desmet and J. Vantomme, Time-dependent incorporating marble powder as partial replacement of cement,
deformations of limestone powder type self-compacting concrete, Constr. Build. Mater, 2015, 96, 615-621.
Eng. Struct, 2008, 30, 2945-2956. [34]. B. Demirel, The effect of the using waste marble dust as fine sand
[9]. A. Karmegam, A. Kalidass and D. Ulaganathan, Utilization of granite on the mechanical properties of the concrete, Int. J. Phys. Sci,
sawing waste in self-compacting concrete, GraCevinar, 2014, 66, 2010, 5, 1372-1380.
997-1006. [35]. M. Tennich, A. Kallel and M. B. Ouezdou, Incorporation of fillers
[10]. B. B. Sabir, S. Wild and J. Bai, Metakaolin and calcined clays as from marble and tile wastes in the composition of self-compacting
pozzolans for concrete: a review, Cem Concr Compos 2001, 23, concrete, Constr. Build. Mater, 2015, 91, 65-70.
441–54. [36]. I. B. Topçu, T. Bilir and T. Uygunoglu, Effect of waste marble dust
[11]. P. Danish and G. Mohan Ganesh, Behaviour of self-compacting content as filler on properties of self-compacting concrete, Constr.
concrete using different mineral powders additions in ternary blends, Build. Mater, 2009, 23, 1947-1953.
Romanian Journal of Materials, 2020, 50(2), 232-239. [37]. M. Uysal and K. Yilmaz, Effect of mineral admixtures on properties
[12]. C. S. Poon, S. C. Kou and L. Lam, Compressive strength, chloride of self-compacting concrete, Cem. Concr. Compos, 2011, 33, 771-
diffusivity and pore structure of high performance metakaolin and 776.
silica fume concrete, Constr. Build. Mater, 2006, 20, 858–865. [38]. R. K. Dhir, M. J. McCarthy and B. J. Magee, Impact of BS EN 450
[13]. M. Hubertova and R. Hela, The effect of metakaolin and silica fume PFA on concrete construction in the UK, Construction and Building
on the properties of lightweight self-consolidating concrete, ACI Materials, 1988, Vol. 12, No. 1, pp 59-74.
Publication SP-243-3. Detroit: American Concrete Institute, 2007. p. [39]. K. Pitisan and S. Tangtermsirikul, A Study on Cement Made by
35–48. Partially Replacing Cement Raw Materials with Municipal Solid
[14]. A. A. A. Hassan, M. B. L. Lachemi and K. M. A. Hossain, Effect of Waste Ash and Calcium Carbide Waste, ScienceAsia, 2003, 29, 77-
metakaolin and silica fume on the durability of self-consolidating 84.
concrete, Cem. Concr. Compos, 2012, 34, 801–807. [40]. Specifications for 53 grade Ordinary Portland Cement, Bureau of
[15]. V. Boel, K. Audenaert, G. De Schutter, G. Heirman, G. Vandewalle Indian Standards, New Delhi, India, Indian Standard IS: 12269-1987
and L. Desmer, Transport properties of self-compacting concrete (reaffirmed in 2013).
with limestone filler or fly ash, Mater Struct, 2007, 40 (5), 507–16. [41]. Specifications for Coarse and Fine aggregates from Natural
[16]. H. Zibara, R. Hooton, M. Thomas and K. Stanish, Influence of the Sources for Concrete. Bureau of Indian standards, New Delhi, India,
C/S and C/A ratios of hydration products on the chloride ion binding Indian Standard IS: 383-2016.
capacity of lime-SF and lime-MK mixtures, Cem. Concr. Res, 2008, [42]. Standard Specification for Coal Fly Ash and Raw or Calcined
38, 422–426. Natural Pozzolan for Use in Concrete, ASTM C 618-05 International
[17]. O. R. Kavitha, V. M. Shanthi, G. Prince Arulraj and V. R. Sivakumar, Standard, (2005).
Microstructural studies on eco-friendly and durable self-compacting [43]. Pulverized fuel ash, specification- for use as pozzolana in cement,
concrete blended with Metakaolin, Appl. Clay Sci, 2016, 124, 143– cement mortar and concrete, Indian Standard IS: 3812-2003 (Part
149. 1).
[18]. E. G. Badogiannis, I. P. Sfikas, D. V. Voukia, K. G. Trezos and S. G. [44]. Concrete Admixtures – Specifications. Bureau of Indian standards,
Tsivilis, Durability of metakaolin Self-Compacting Concrete, Constr. New Delhi, India. Indian Standard IS: 9013-1999 (reaffirmed 2004).
Build. Mater, 2015, 82, 133–141. [45]. Specifications and guidelines for self-compacting concrete.
[19]. E. P. Koehler, D. W. Fowler, E. H. Foley, G. J. Rogers, S. European Federation of Producers and Applicators of Specialist
Watanachet and M. J. Jung, Self- Consolidating Concrete for Products for Structures, EFNARC, 2002.
Precast Structural Applications: Mixture Proportions, Workability, [46]. Specifications, Production and Use. The European Guidelines for
and Early-Age Hardened Properties, Aggregates Foundation for self-compacting Concrete, May (2005).
Technology: Research and Education, Calcium Carbide Waste, [47]. Standard Test Method for Density, Absorption, and Voids in
ScienceAsia, 2003, 29, 77-84. Hardened Concrete. ASTM International Standard, (2013). ASTM
[20]. J. K. Kim, S. H. Han, Y. D. Park, J. H. Noh, C. L. Park, Y. H. Kwon C642 – 13,
and S. G. Lee, Experimental research on the material properties of [48]. Standard Test Method for Measurement of Rate of Absorption of
super flowing concrete, in: P.J.M. Bartos, D.L. Marrs, D.J. Cleland Water by Hydraulic-Cement Concretes. ASTM International
(Eds.), Production Methods and Workability of Concrete, E&FN Standard, (2013).
Spon, 1996, pp. 271–284. [49]. E. Güneyisi, M. Gesoğlu and K. Mermerdaş, Improving strength,
[21]. K. H. H. R. H. Obla, M. Thomas, S. G. Shashiprakash and O. drying shrinkage, and pore structure of concrete using metakaolin,
Perebatova, Properties of concrete containing ultra-fine fly ash, ACI Mater. Struct, 2008, 41(5), 937–949.
Mater. J, 2003, 100 (5), 426–433. [50]. V. Kannan and K. Ganesan, Mechanical properties of self-
[22]. R. Shadle and S. Somerville, The benefits of utilizing fly ash in compacting concrete with binary and ternary cementitious blends of
producing self- compacting concrete. In: 1st North American metakaolin and fly ash, Journal of the South African Institution of
Conference on the Design and Use of Self-Consolidating Concrete, Civil Engineering, 2014, 56, 97-105.
Chicago, 2002, 217–222. [51]. CEB-FIP, Diagnosis and assessment of concrete structures – state
[23]. J. M. Khatib, Performance of self-compacting concrete containing fly of art report, CEB Bulletin, Euro-International Concrete Committee,
ash, Constr.Build. Mater, 2008, 22(9), 1963-1971. 1989, P. 83-85.
[24]. A. Kanellopoulos, M. F. Petrou and I. Ioannou, Durability [52]. R. Siddique and J. Klaus, Influence of metakaolin on the properties
performance of self-compacting concrete, Constr. Build. Mater. of mortar and concrete: A review, Appl. Clay Sci, 2009, 43(3), 392–
2012, 37, 320–325. 400.
[25]. K. E. Alyamac and A. B. Aydin, Concrete properties containing fine [53]. M. Shekarchi, A. Bonakdar, M. Bakhshi, A. Mirdamadi and B.
aggregate marble powder, KSCE J. Civ. Eng, 2015, 19, 2208-2216. Mobasher, Transport properties in metakaolin blended concrete,
[26]. A. O. Mashaly, B. A. El-Kaliouby, B. N. Shalaby, A. M. El-Gohary Constr.Build. Mater, 2010, 24(11), 2217–2223.
and M. A. Rashwan, Effects of marble sludge incorporation on the
properties of cement composites and concrete paving blocks, J.
Clean. Prod, 2016, 112, 731-741.
 378 Peerzada Danish, Mohan Ganesh G./ Durability properties of self – compacting concrete using different mineral
powders additions in ternary blends

[54]. A. A. Ramezanianpour and J. H. Bahrami, Influence of metakaolin [58]. Al-Akhras and M. Nabil, Durability of metakolin concrete to sulphate
as supplementary cementing material on strength and durability of attack, Cement and Concrete Research, 2006, 36 (9), 1727-1734.
concretes, Constr Build Mater 2012, 30, 470-479. [59]. P. Murthi and V. Sivakumar, Studies on acid resistance of ternary
[55]. E. Güneyisi, M. Gesoglu, S. Karaoglu and K. Mermerdas, Strength, blended concrete, Asian J Civ Eng, 2008, 9, 473-86.
permeability and shrinkage cracking of silica fume and metakaolin [60]. B. Chatveera and P. Lertwattanaruk, Durability of conventional
concretes, Constr. Build.Mater, 2012, 34, 120-130. concretes containing black rice husk ash, J Environ Manage, 2011, 92,
[56]. W. Wongkeo, P. Thongsanitgarn and A. Ngamjarurojana, A. 59-66.
Chaipanich, Compressive strength and chloride resistance of self-
compacting concrete containing high level fly ash and silica fume,
Mater. Des, 2014, 64, 261-269.
[57]. P. Dinakar, K. G. Babu and S. Manu, Durability properties of high
volume fly ash self-compacting concretes, Cem. Concr. Compos,
2008, 30, 880–886.

***************************************************************************************************