Proposal Report

Proposal Report: Assessing the Strength and Durability of Concrete Incorporating Tertiary Blended
Cementitious Materials
1. Title: Assessing the Strength and Durability of Concrete Incorporating Tertiary Blended Cementitious
Materials
1. Abstract
The global construction industry faces mounting pressure to adopt sustainable

practices to reduce environmental degradation. Cement production, being a major
contributor to CO₂ emissions, highlights the urgent need for alternative approaches
that minimize ecological impacts while preserving concrete’s structural performance.
This research explores the feasibility of using tertiary blended cementitious materials
(SCMs) to produce high-performance and durable concrete. The study emphasizes
the environmental and functional benefits of incorporating fly ash, silica fume, corn
cob ash, blast furnace slag, bentonite, and marble powder as SCMs.
The project investigates the unique properties of each SCM and their
synergistic effects when combined in varying proportions to replace Ordinary
Portland Cement (OPC) partially. By replacing OPC in percentages ranging from 5%
to 30%, the study seeks to identify optimal mix designs that balance strength,
durability, and workability. A baseline mix using 100% OPC is included for
comparative analysis. The experimental program includes both fresh and hardened
concrete testing. Fresh concrete properties, such as workability and density, are
measured through slump tests and unit weight analysis. Hardened concrete is
evaluated for compressive, split tensile, and flexural strengths at 28, and 60 days.
To assess durability, the study employs advanced testing methodologies,

including water absorption, rapid chloride permeability, sulfate resistance, acid
attack, and freeze-thaw resistance tests. These provide comprehensive insights into
the concrete’s long-term performance under aggressive environmental conditions.
Furthermore, microstructural analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) offers an in-depth understanding of hydration processes,
pore structure refinement, and mineralogical changes within the blended matrix.
Expected outcomes include the development of concrete mixes with superior

mechanical and durability properties, reduced environmental footprint, and practical
applicability in construction. This research aligns with global sustainability goals,
offering a pathway to greener infrastructure development by utilizing industrial and
agricultural by-products effectively. By advancing knowledge on tertiary blends, the
project aims to contribute significantly to the evolution of eco-friendly construction
materials and technologies.
2. Introduction
Concrete is the most widely used construction material due to its versatility, strength, and
availability. However, the production of cement, a primary component of concrete, contributes significantly
to global CO2 emissions. To address this environmental concern, the use of supplementary cementitious
materials (SCMs) such as Fly Ash, Bentonite, Marble Powder, Blast Furnace Slag, Corn Cob Ash, and
Silica Fume has gained prominence. This research investigates the combined effects of these materials as a
tertiary blend on the mechanical and durability properties of concrete. The study aims to balance
performance enhancement with sustainability, paving the way for eco-friendly construction practices.
a) Statement of Purpose
This project addresses critical challenges in the construction industry by exploring

sustainable solutions to high carbon emissions, resource depletion, cost concerns,
and performance gaps in conventional concrete. By incorporating tertiary blended
cementitious materials such as fly ash, silica fume, corn cob ash, blast furnace slag,
bentonite, and marble powder, the study aims to reduce reliance on Ordinary
Portland Cement (OPC) and its associated environmental impact. The utilization of
these industrial and agricultural by-products seeks to conserve natural resources,
lower costs, and enhance the durability and strength of concrete. Ultimately, this
research strives to develop high-performance, eco-friendly concrete mixes that
contribute to sustainable construction practices and resilient infrastructure
development.
b) Objectives
 To assess the mechanical properties (compressive strength, tensile strength,

and flexural strength) of concrete with tertiary blends.
 To evaluate the durability of the blended concrete under aggressive
environmental conditions.
 To determine the optimal mix proportions for strength and durability.
 To compare the performance of the proposed blends with conventional
concrete.
c) Impact of the Study
This study will contribute significantly to the field of civil engineering by:
 Providing an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional concrete,

reducing the reliance on OPC.
 Offering insights into the use of industrial waste and by-products in
construction, promoting a circular economy.
 Improving the understanding of the long-term performance of concrete with
blended cementitious materials, leading to more durable and cost-effective
infrastructure.
 Assisting in the development of standards and guidelines for using
supplementary cementitious materials in concrete construction.

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Proposal Report: Assessing the Strength and Durability of Concrete Incorporating Tertiary Blended

The global construction industry faces mounting pressure to adopt sustainable

To assess durability, the study employs advanced testing methodologies,

Expected outcomes include the development of concrete mixes with superior

This project addresses critical challenges in the construction industry by exploring

 To assess the mechanical properties (compressive strength, tensile strength,

c) Impact of the Study

 Providing an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional concrete,

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