Investigating on the Effect of Partial Replacement of Fine Aggregate with Aluminium Dust in the Production of Concrete.

Abstract

This experimental investigation was performed to evaluate the viability of using aluminium by-product (waste) in the production of low strength concrete. Aluminium waste dust is obtained from the use of aluminium alloys in construction industry. It typically comes in the form of thin, flexible and small strips that can be used in concrete production. The effects of incorporation of Aluminium waste dust on the properties of fresh and hardened concrete were experimentally investigated. The study evaluated the density, swelling, compressive strengths and workability properties of concrete mixtures to which aluminium waste dust was added in different proportions (0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10% and 20%) by weight of cement. Compression strength tests were carried out to evaluate the strength properties of hardened concrete. Workability and swelling of fresh concrete were also monitored and recorded. The test results indicate that Aluminium waste dust reacts with cement hydration products, causing considerable decreases in workability, compressive strength and density of plain concrete with the addition of Aluminium waste dust. The reduction in density of concrete due to hydrogen gas released from the reaction of aluminium with alkaline cement paste solution can be positively viewed to produce lighter concrete. The results also indicate that the strength of concrete with Aluminium waste dust can still be considered sufficient for some applications. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate the viability of using Aluminium waste dust in the production of low-strength and lighter concrete and can help toward a more sustainable construction.