Sustainable Concrete Development Using Desert Sand and Metakaolin: Mechanical and Durability Assessment

International Journal of Civil Engineering

© 2025 by SSRG - IJCE Journal

Volume 12 Issue 11

Year of Publication : 2025

Authors : Jash P. Joshi, Ashish D. Kachhadiya, Prashant K. Bhuva, Shekhar H. Parmar, Chirag R. Odedra

10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V12I11P111

How to Cite?

Jash P. Joshi, Ashish D. Kachhadiya, Prashant K. Bhuva, Shekhar H. Parmar, Chirag R. Odedra, "Sustainable Concrete Development Using Desert Sand and Metakaolin: Mechanical and Durability Assessment," SSRG International Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 12,  no. 11, pp. 132-144, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V12I11P111

Abstract:

The deficit of natural river sand and the ecological impact of cement production have elevated the demand for eco-efficient materials for concrete production. The present research investigates the combination of Desert Sand (DS) and Metakaolin (MK) as a sustainable source of natural fine aggregate and cement in M25 concrete. Desert sand sourced from the Kachchh region of Gujarat, India, was utilized to substitute fine aggregate at proportions of 10%, 20%, and 30%, while metakaolin was integrated at 5%, 10%, and 15% replacement of cement. The mechanical parameters, comprising compressive, flexural, and split tensile strength, as well as durability against acid and sulphate attacks, were assessed at 7 and 28 days. The findings reveal that the specimen with 20% DS and 10% MK (Sample S5) had the maximum compressive strength of 32.89 MPa at 28 days, in addition to enhanced flexural and tensile strength relative to the control mix. Improved acid and sulphate resistance was also noted, signifying enhanced durability. The findings indicate that desert sand and metakaolin can be effectively employed to create durable, high-performance concrete appropriate for dry and coastal areas. This integrated method promotes sustainable material use and diminishes reliance on river sand.

Keywords:

Desert sand, Metakaolin, Sustainable concrete, Compressive strength, Durability, Acid resistance, Sulphate resistance.

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