Utilization of copper slag as fine sand replacement in concrete: a response surface methodology approach

Abstract

Abstract The utilization of industrial by-products in concrete production has gained significant attention due to its potential environmental and economic benefits. The increasing demand for sustainable construction materials has prompted researchers to explore alternative options that mitigate environmental concerns while maintaining desirable mechanical properties of concrete. This research paper investigates, the feasibility of utilizing copper slag as a partial replacement for fine aggregate in concrete through a systematic experimental study using response surface methodology (RSM). The study encompasses the optimization of concrete mix proportions by considering the varying levels of copper slag content (20%, 30%, and 40%), water-cement ratio (0.35, 0.40, and 0.45), and curing days (7, 14 and 28 days). Through a series of comprehensive laboratory experiments (RSM designed) and statistical analyses, this paper presents developed mathematical models, response surface plots, and contour plots and optimization of dosage of input variables for maximum compressive strength of the concrete. Results revels that curing days having strong influence on performance of compressive strength. The optimization study shows the optimal dosage for maximum performance of compressive strength was copper slag 35.90%, water-cement 0.38 and curing days 27.55 (approx. 28) days, the corresponding maximum compressive strength was 59.29 MPa. The utilization of copper slag as a replacement for fine aggregate in concrete not only addresses the issue of waste disposal but also contributes to resource conservation and reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional construction practices.

Keywords

• Copper slag
• Response surface method
• Sustainable concrete
• Optimization
• Industrial by-products