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This research aims to improve the sustainability and mechanical properties of concrete by using partial replacement of cement M40 grade of concrete with Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS), Alccofine (AL), and Metakaolin (MK). The study compares the effects of different proportions of GGBFS (0-50%), Alccofine (0-20%), and Metakaolin (0-15%) on the compressive, tensile, and flexural strength and at curing ages of 7, 28, 56, and 90 days. The effective proportions of the replacements were determined to be 30% GGBFS, 15 % Alccofine, and 10% Metakaolin in ratios, which considerably improved the mechanical properties of ordinary concrete. A ternary blend of these optimal levels was subsequently studied to determine its synergistic effect on the mechanical properties and microstructure. The ternary mix demonstrated enhanced performance in every strength test in comparison with individual replacements and normal concrete. The SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) analysis indicated that the enhanced pozzolanic activities, higher densities of the microstructure, and denser packing densities of the particles were the primary factors contributing to the improved performance. The results highlight that through the application of SCMs, there exist promising opportunities in attaining high performance at the same time as a low environmental footprint that could help in concrete innovation for more sustainable solutions. With its unique investigation of a ternary blend of SCMs (GGBFS, Alccofine, and Metakaolin), this work presents a novel approach to the development of green concrete by showcasing their synergistic impact on mechanical and microstructural qualities.
Durai et al. (Fri,) studied this question.