Identification of optimum replacement ratio of processed quarry dust as a substitute for sand in cement plastering

Abstract

The demand for sand is increasing due to construction activities. River sand scarcity causes illegal mining and environmental damage. The construction industry faces negative impacts if river sand becomes unavailable or scarce. Therefore, finding a suitable substitute is essential for the sustainability of the construction industry as well as preventing further degradation of the river ecosystem. Quarry dust, a byproduct of crushing is studied as a potential substitute. The investigation assessed the feasibility of using quarry dust as a partial replacement for river sand in wall plaster. Quarry dust was utilised to achieve the desired particle size distribution equivalent to that of sand. Five types of cement-sand-quarry dust wall plaster mortars were made. The volume ratios between sand and quarry dust were kept at 1:0, 4:1, 2:1, 3:2, and 0:1 while maintaining a constant cement amount for all mixtures. Then the strength and durability of plastering mortar were examined using destructive and non-destructive test methods. The obtained results were compared with wall plaster made from 100% sand. Results demonstrated that the optimal combination of strength, durability, and workability was achieved when using a sand-to-quarry dust ratio of 2:1. Also, this mixture reduced plastering mortar cost by 6%, recommending replacing 1/3 of the sand with resembled quarry dust for plastering mortar.