Concrete as a sustainable matrix for industrial waste fines: effects on water demand, strength, durability, and sustainability

This study investigates the use of non-pozzolanic industrial fine powder waste, M-Sand fines powder (MsFP), marble fine powder (MFP), and granite fine powder (GFP) as a supplementary filler component in concrete. These industrial by-products, often disposed of in landfills, represent an underexplored resource for sustainable construction. In all, 49 concrete mix experiments were conducted, varying water-to-cement ratios (0.37–0.54) and fine powder contents of 100–400 kg/m³. The water correction factors of 3.20, 4.71, and 7.98 were established for MsFP, MFP, and GFP, respectively, assuring the effective w/c is comparable to the respective control concrete mix. Results showed similar compressive strength to control mixes, with improved water penetration resistance due to pore size refinement, as confirmed by two different water permeability tests and further confirmation by scanning electron microscopy analysis. Sustainability assessment indicated reduced embodied energy and CO2 emissions, while cost analysis revealed economic advantages. The findings demonstrate that fine powder incorporation enhances concrete durability and promotes sustainable construction by reducing industrial waste and conserving natural resources.