Characterization of standard strength concrete containing quartz powder as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM): a comparative study with traditional cement-based concrete using carbonation and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS)
摘要
Concrete is essential to contemporary infrastructure and buildings, but its manufacture greatly increases carbon emissions and degrades the environment. In this study, a partial replacement of cement in concrete with quartz powder is investigated as a sustainable option. Primarily composed of silica (Sio2), quartz powder has low water requirements, few mineral contaminants, and outstanding stability. Concrete's hydration process can be accelerated by its insulation, improving its qualities and lessening its environmental impact. This study concentrates on the possibility of quartz powder as a cement alternative, but previous research has looked at it as a fine aggregate substitute. As long as the water-to-cement ratio remained constant at 0.50, replacement ratios of 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30% by weight of cement were evaluated. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed to examine the microstructure of the modified concrete and quartz powder. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was used to assess the concrete's porous structure; the results were displayed using Nyquist and Bode plots. These are techniques for measuring and contrasting the electrical signal conductivity of concrete or other materials at various time intervals, which aids in evaluating the general quality or behavior of the material. Furthermore, a comparison was made between the effects of carbonation on modified mixes and a regular mix. At a 20% replacement level, the best results were seen, indicating improved concrete properties and sustainability. To promote sustainable building practices, future research should examine the approach's long-term viability and wider environmental advantages.