Value-added utilization of granite industry by-product in development of geopolymer paver blocks for medium traffic drive ways

摘要

The production of granite waste from stone industry processes poses environmental challenges, particularly in urban areas where waste accumulation leads to large landfills. This non-biodegradable waste contributes to pollution and ecological degradation. To address this issue, this research investigates the potential use of granite waste as a filler in geopolymer concrete paver blocks, aiming to enhance sustainability and performance in construction materials. The experimental study focuses on incorporating granite waste with fly ash (FA) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) as binders, activated by Na2SiO3 and NaOH. Two mix proportions (M1 and M2) are examined, with binder contents of 440 kg/m(3) and 403 kg/m(3), respectively. Granite waste is introduced at varying percentages of 10%, 15%, and 20%, alongside a control mix without waste inclusion. Ambient curing conditions are employed. Mechanical properties (compressive strength, tensile splitting strength, flexural strength), durability (carbonation, chloride penetration, water absorption), and microstructure (XRD, FTIR) are evaluated. Results show that at 15% granite waste inclusion, there is a significant improvement in compressive strength (10.71% for M1, 11.20% for M2) compared to control mixes. Enhanced mechanical properties are attributed to dense particle packing and reduced voids in the concrete matrix. Additionally, geopolymer concrete with 15% granite waste exhibits reduced chloride penetration, carbonation depth, water absorption, and higher ultrasonic pulse velocity, indicating improved durability.