Review on High Volume Replacement of Mineral Admixtures in Concrete

Abstract: Today the cost of construction is soaring at an exponential rate with the use of materials like cement, fine aggregate, coarse aggregate. Cement production requires high energy input and also it is generating greenhouse gases. Carbon dioxide is released by cement manufacturing both indirectly (emission of energy) and directly (heating of calcium carbonate). Manufacturing of cement causes emission of the most common greenhouse gas i.e. carbon dioxide, from 5% in cement structures to 8% in case of cement roads. The cement factories produce up to 5% of global artificial emission. Also, the prices of cement are increasing day by day. The main objective of the concrete industry today is to meet up with the rising demands to perform at its level best to maintain the ecological balance. The excessive emission of greenhouse gases inhibits the sustainable growth of the environment. It has a greater impact on the climate and society. These are the major reasons that the use of high volume replacement of mineral admixtures in cement has gained popularity. Mineral admixtures may be categorized into two groups, namely, chemically active mineral admixtures (Silica Fume and Metakaolin) and micro filler mineral admixtures (Fly ash, Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag and Rice Husk Ash). Replacement of mineral admixtures in concrete leads to substantial environmental benefits. This study emphasizes on the usage of high volume replacement of mineral admixtures in concrete.

Keywords: Cement, Mineral Admixtures, Silica Fume, Metakaolin, Fly Ash, Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag, High Volume Replacement