This study investigates the partial replacement of natural sand with industrial and construction waste materials such as quarry dust, foundry sand, and concrete debris. These alternative materials not only help reduce the environmental footprint of concrete production but also offer the potential to enhance specific concrete properties such as compressive strength, durability, and workability. A range of mix designs with varying replacement levels are analyzed to evaluate their effects on the mechanical and physical performance of highgrade concrete. The research findings indicate that an optimal combination of these waste materials can result in concrete that meets or exceeds standard performance benchmarks for high-strength applications. This promotes sustainable construction practices, encourages waste reutilization, and contributes to the conservation of natural resources, paving the way for environmentally responsible and economically viable concrete technology. In the quest for sustainable development and ecofriendly construction practices, the replacement of natural sand in concrete with alternative materials has become a crucial area of research, especially for higher-grade concrete like M40 and M50. Natural sand, a non-renewable resource, is extensively used in concrete production, causing environmental degradation and resource scarcity. This study focuses on the partial replacement of natural sand with a combination of quarry dust, foundry sand, and concrete debris to evaluate their suitability in producing high-strength concrete. A series of mix combinations were developed for M40 and M50 grades by partially replacing 50% of the natural sand using varying proportions of the selected waste materials. Compressive strength tests were conducted at 7 and 28 days to assess the mechanical performance of the mixes. The results indicated a noticeable improvement in strength for several combinations. For instance in M40 concrete a mix with 20% quarry dust 10% foundry sand, and 20% concrete debris achieved a 28-day compressive strength of 51.62 N/mm² surpassing the control mix. Similarly in M50 concrete optimal combinations exhibited strength values exceeding the targeted grade requirements. The study concludes that the partial replacement of sand with these industrial by-products not only maintains or enhances concrete performance but also contributes to sustainable construction by reducing the demand for natural resources and promoting the reuse of industrial waste. This research supports the practical application of ecofriendly concrete in high-strength structural works, making it a viable alternative for future infrastructure projects.
Tushar Sayabanna Sannake (Fri,) studied this question.