Experimental study on partial replacement of concrete constituents withdemolition wastes and carbon compounds

Abstract

This research has detailed the formulation and performance assessment of a new composite concrete mix for increased strength and sustainability. According to the conventional M20 mix design proportion, the concrete mixture has comprised cement, sand, aggregates, and partially substituted aggregates with demolition waste to ensure sustainable building practice. In an attempt to enhance the mechanical properties of the mix, two advanced modifiers—concrete mix with Graphene Oxide (GO) and a mixture of GO with superplasticizer (SP)—have been added. Six concrete cubes (150 mm × 150 mm × 150 mm) have been cast and cured for compressive strength tests at 7 and 28 days. Sieve analysis tests, fineness tests, and other various tests have been performed to ensure the quality of aggregates and cement. Compressive strength values have indicated that the mix containing only GO has exhibited a 9.1% and 22.2% increase at 7 and 28 days, respectively, when compared to normal M20 concrete. Interestingly, the mix containing both GO and SP has performed best, exhibiting a 33.1% increase at 7 days and a 55.5% increase at 28 days. This research study has validated that the application of demolition waste, Graphene Oxide, and superplasticizers not only has conserved resources but also has significantly improved concrete performance, paving the way for sustainable and high-performance construction materials.