DEVELOPMENT AND PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT OF CONCRETE INCORPORATING DOLOMITE DUST POWDER AND SLAG SAND

Abstract

The increasing demand for sustainable construction materials has encouraged the utilization of industrial by-products and waste materials in concrete production to reduce environmental impacts and conserve natural resources. This study focuses on the development and performance assessment of concrete incorporating dolomite dust powder (DDP) and slag sand (SS) as partial replacements for conventional cementitious and fine aggregate materials. Dolomite dust powder, generated as a by-product from quarrying and stone processing industries, possesses favorable filler characteristics that can enhance the particle packing density of concrete. Similarly, slag sand, obtained from metallurgical industries, serves as an alternative fine aggregate with beneficial physical and mechanical properties. The combined utilization of these materials offers a sustainable solution for reducing waste disposal issues while minimizing the consumption of natural resources. Concrete mixtures were prepared with varying proportions of dolomite dust powder and slag sand, and their fresh and hardened properties were evaluated through a comprehensive experimental program. Mechanical performance was assessed using compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength, and modulus of elasticity tests conducted at different curing periods. The results revealed that the incorporation of dolomite dust powder improved the micro-filling effect and enhanced the density of the concrete matrix, while slag sand contributed to improved interfacial bonding and strength development. An optimum replacement level was identified, at which the concrete exhibited superior mechanical properties compared to conventional concrete. The developed sustainable concrete demonstrated enhanced strength, improved durability characteristics, and better resistance to cracking. The findings indicate that dolomite dust powder and slag sand can be effectively utilized in concrete production to achieve both environmental sustainability and improved structural performance, making them suitable materials for modern infrastructure development.