The Effects of Waste Ceramic Powders and Waste Glass Powders on the Rheological and Mechanical Properties of Self-Compacting Concrete

Abstract

Two key axes dominated this experimental research. The first was developing self-compacting concrete from ceramic waste powder (CWP) and glass waste powder (GWP), which met and followed the recommended European specification and guidelines for self-compacting concrete (EFNARC) standards. The second axis indicated the self-compacting concrete's rheological and mechanical performance. Sixteen different mixtures were produced using supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) to replace cement partially. The replacement levels of SCMs were 5%, 10%, and 15% (by weight of cement), divided into three series: Series A (containing ceramic waste powder), Series B (containing glass waste powder), and Series C (containing combinations of ceramic waste powder and glass waste powder). The SCC rheological properties for all mixtures with different levels of SCMs replacement in the mixture gradually decreased as the substitution ratios increased. The reduction in flowability for substitution, ranging from 5% to 35%, was approximately 0% to 12%, respectively. However, the reduction was insignificant; the fresh properties remained within the limits specified by EFNARC. Regarding the mechanical properties, at an early age, the strength of mixtures decreased with increasing alternative ratios. However, after 90 days, the strength increased by about 11% and 9% of the compressive and flexural strengths, respectively, over the control mix, indicating that SCMs improve the concrete strength over time and are suitable to contribute to an eco-friendly concrete industry without compromising strength.