Document Type : Regular Paper
Authors
1
Research Scholar, SSBT’s College of Engineering & Technology, Bambhori, Jalgaon, MS, India
2
Professor & Head, Department of Civil Engineering, SSBT’s College of Engineering & Technology, Bambhori, Jalgaon, MS, India
3
Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, SSBT’s College of Engineering & Technology, Bambhori, Jalgaon, MS, India
Abstract
This study investigates the sustainability and performance of M20 and M30 grade concrete incorporating Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS) and Pond Ash as partial replacements for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and fine aggregates, respectively. Replacement levels were varied between 10% and 50%, and their effects on workability, strength, and durability were analyzed using Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Concrete mixes with up to 40% replacement demonstrated enhanced workability (R² = 99.96%, MAPE = 0.85%), attributed to improved particle packing and reduced internal friction. However, beyond this threshold, workability declined due to increased porosity and water absorption. Compressive strength (CS), flexural strength (FS), and split tensile strength (SPT) showed a diminishing trend with higher replacement levels. Model for compressive strength achieved an R² of 97.21% and MAPE of 3.21%, while flexural strength model had an R² of 99.68% and MAPE of 1.13%, indicating high predictive accuracy. Durability assessments revealed a decline in water absorption ( R² = 88.05%, MAPE = 5.45%) and acid attack resistance (R² = 99.83%, MAPE = 0.58%) with increasing GGBFS and Pond Ash content, primarily due to increased porosity and altered microstructural characteristics. Microstructural analysis confirmed reduced hydration density and weaker bond formation at higher replacement levels. Economically and environmentally, the use of GGBFS and Pond Ash reduces carbon emissions and reliance on natural resources, providing cost-effective and sustainable alternatives for concrete production. The findings highlight that optimal replacement levels (up to 40%) achieve a balance between sustainability and mechanical performance, contributing to sustainable development in construction.
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