Feasibility Study on Concrete Made with Substitution of Quarry Dust: A Review

Abstract

Concrete mechanical properties could be improved through adding different materials at the mixing stage. Quarry dust (QD) is the waste produced by manufactured sand machines and comprise approximately 30–40% of the total quantity of QD generated. When it dries, it transforms into a fine dust that poses a tremendous hazard to the environment by contaminating the soil and water and seriously endangering human health. QD utilization in concrete is one of the best options. Though a lot of scholars focus on imitation of QD in concrete, knowledge is scattered, and a detailed review is required. This review collects the information regarding QD-based concrete, including fresh properties, strength, durability, and microstructure analysis. The results indicate that QD is suitable for concrete to a certain extent, but higher percentages adversely affect properties of concrete due to absence of fluidity. The review also indicates that up to 40–50% substitution of QD as a fine aggregate can be utilized in concrete with no harmful effects on strength and durability. Furthermore, although QD possesses cementitious properties and can be used as cement substitute to some extent, less research has explored this area.