This research aims to improve the sustainability and mechanical properties of concrete by using partial replacement of cement with Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS), Alccofine (AL), and Metakaolin (MK). The study compares the effects of different proportions of GGBFS (0-50%), Alccofine (0-20%), and Metakaolin (0-15%) on the compressive, tensile, and flexural strength and at curing ages of 7th, 28th, 56th, and 90th days. The effective proportions of the replacements were determined to be 30% GGBFS, 15 % Alccofine, and 10% Metakaolin in ratios, which considerably improved the structural characteristics of conventional concrete. A ternary blend of these optimal levels was subsequently studied to determine its synergistic effect on the mechanical properties and microstructure. The ternary blend of these optimal levels demonstrated a 67.1% increase in compressive strength at 28 days and a 51.2% increase at 90 days compared to the control mix. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis suggested that increased pozzolanic activities, an increase in densities of the microstructure, and packing densities of the particles were the key factors for the improved performance. The results highlight that through the application of supplemental cementitious materials (SCMs), there exist promising opportunities in attaining high performance at the same time as a low environmental footprint that could help in concrete innovation for more sustainable solutions.
Science Journal 