Newly developed cement–ground granite scraps composite for solidification/stabilization of radioactive wastes: characterization and evaluation of the mechanical durability

Abstract

AbstractThe core objective of the present study is to develop an added value cement–granite composite (CGC) based on granite (G) scraps and Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). The granite scraps were collected, washed, ground, sieved, and the finest powder was used as an inorganic admixture for developing the CGC. Plain water was added to the granite–cement powder and thoroughly mixed. The obtained pastes were casted for 28 days prior to their physical, structural, thermal characterizations and their mechanical evaluation. Factors assumed, mostly, to affect the final properties of the CGC blocks, e.g. granite/cement and water: cement ratios were studied. The reached monolith cement–granite composite has many advantages, e.g. lower density, very low water absorption percentage, acceptable compressive strength values and significant radiation and thermal stability. Based on the experimental data reached it could be stated that: for its economical advantages, where the one of its basic components is a waste. In addition to the acceptable mechanical traits of the developed composite, it can be candidate properly as an inert matrix for some radioactive wastes containment, for application in many field including: construction sector (interior and exterior of household walls, floor tiles, etc.), and for many others. The environmental reward due to management the accumulated problematic solid granite scraps is, certainly, a gain.