The Effect of Basalt Aggregates and Mineral Admixtures on the Mechanical Properties of Concrete Exposed to Sulphate Attacks

Abstract

In this study, basalt, which is common around Diyarbakir province (Turkey), is used as concrete aggregate, waste materials as mineral additives and Portland cement as binding material to prepare concrete mixes. This paper aims to determine the proper admixture levels and usability of Diyarbakir basalt in concrete mixtures based on mechanical, physical and chemical tests. Thus, in order to determine the strength and durability performance of concrete mixtures with Diyarbakir basalt as aggregate, 72 sample cubes of 150 mm were prepared in three groups: mineral-free admixture (MFA), 10% of cement amount substituted for silica fume (SFS) and 20% for fly ash (FAS) as waste material. The samples were exposed to water curing and 100g/L sulphate solution to determine the loss in weight of the concrete cubes and compressive strength was examined at the end of 7, 28 and 360 days of the specimens. Analysis of the microstructure and cracks that influence durability, were also performed to determine effects of sulphate attacks alkali-silica reactions on the specimens using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A loss in weight of the concrete cubes and compressive strength was distinctly evident at the end of 56 and 90 days in both acids.