Development of high performance of concrete using natural admixtures

Abstract

This study investigates the progress of high-performance material (HPC) through the incorporation of Prosopis juliflora plant extract, mineral admixtures (fly ash, silica fume, and metakaolin), and steel slag as a fine aggregate replacement. M50 grade concrete was used as the base mix to evaluate strength and durability characteristics. The optimal dosage of P. juliflora extract was determined to be 100 ppm, resulting in a 7.06% rise in compressive power at 28 days. Partial cement replacement with 10% fly ash (FA), 15% silica fume (SF), and 15% metakaolin (MK) yielded maximum compressive strength improvements of 21.02%, 25.46%, and 20.05%, respectively. The integration of 35% steel slag as fine aggregate replacement in optimized mixes achieved compressive strength increases of up to 30.91%. Durability tests showed significant reductions in saturated water absorption (up to 50.58%), sorptivity (up to 63.38%), and rapid chloride ion penetration (up to 51.80%). Microstructural analysis using XRD, SEM, and AFM validated the enhanced properties. The study demonstrates that combining natural admixtures, mineral admixtures, and industrial waste produces sustainable, high-performance concrete with superior mechanical assets and durability.