Mechanical and Water Absorption Properties of Normal Strength Concrete (NSC) Containing Secondary Aluminum Dross (SAD)

Abstract

Utilization of secondary aluminium dross (SAD) as a constituent material in production of concrete is one of the recycling and value-added alternatives of reusing the waste due to the environmental friendliness, economy and improved performances associated with the material. This present study investigates the feasibility of incorporating SAD as a replacement binder in normal strength concrete (NSC). X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis revealed that the investigated SAD is rich in alumina content while exhibiting expansive property when tested via Le Chatelier apparatus. The studied fresh concrete samples blended with SAD recorded low workability and densities as the replacement levels increase. Compressive, split tensile and flexural strength tests conducted on the hardened concrete indicated a reduce strength as the percentage contents of the SAD increases when compared with the reference mixture. Moreover, the water absorption results also revealed higher water absorption capacity of the hardened concrete samples with increasing percentage contents of the SAD in the concrete samples. It is, therefore, suggested that blend of Portland cement (PC) with SAD content within 10% will be beneficial in the production of normal strength concrete for the structural purpose by the construction industry, while also limiting the impact of the aluminium waste on the environment.