Utilization of Quarry Dust and Calcareous Fly Ash for the Production of Lightweight Cellular Micro-Concrete—Synthesis and Characterization

Abstract

This study aims to assess the production of cellular micro-concrete, consisting of quarry dust, calcareous fly ash, cement, and aluminum powder as aerating agent. The proposed mixture design methodology is based on a Box–Behnken fractional factorial experimental design. Testing of specimens included compressive and flexural strength, density, water absorption, and thermal conductivity measurements. Results indicate that density is a characteristic property which determines all the measured properties. Aerating agent to cement and fly ash ratio has the strongest effect on all the measured properties. The developed methodology is a valuable tool for the production of cellular micro-concrete with predetermined properties by utilizing large amounts of quarry dust.

Keywords

• quarry dust
• calcareous fly ash
• cellular micro-concrete
• Box–Behnken factorial design