Synergistic effects of Fly Ash, Silica Fume, and Metakaolin on the strength and durability of M30 grade concrete
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Full Text |
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Author |
N. Naga Phani Babu, A. Aravindan and Nadigatla Naveen Kumar
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e-ISSN |
1819-6608 |
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On Pages
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1899-1907
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Volume No. |
20
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Issue No. |
21
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Issue Date |
January 25, 2026
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DOI |
https://doi.org/10.59018/1125213
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Keywords |
mineral admixtures, fly ash, silica fume, metakaolin, compressive strength, durability performance.
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Abstract
This study investigates the influence of Fly Ash, Silica Fume, and Metakaolin as partial replacements for cement on the fresh, mechanical, and durability characteristics of M30 grade concrete. Three concrete mixes were designed: a conventional control mix and two modified mixes, C-55%, F-30%, S-10%, M-5% and C-50%, F-25%, S-15%, M-10%. The experimental programme included slump cone, compaction factor, compressive strength, flexural strength, carbonation, water absorption, and acid resistance tests. The workability results indicated medium slump values for all mixes in accordance with IS 456:2000, with slightly improved cohesion due to the addition of mineral admixtures. The compressive strength of the modified concretes showed significant enhancement after 28 days, with the C-50%, F-25%, S-15%, M-10% mix achieving the highest strength of 38.5 N/mm², approximately 9% higher than the control concrete. Similarly, the same mix demonstrated the greatest flexural strength (6.46 N/mm²), reflecting improved tensile capacity and resistance to cracking. Durability tests confirmed the superior performance of the mineral-admixture concretes, exhibiting reduced carbonation depth, lower water absorption, and higher acid resistance compared with conventional concrete. Overall, the findings demonstrate that the synergistic incorporation of Fly Ash, Silica Fume, and Metakaolin in optimised proportions enhances both the strength and durability of concrete. The C-50%, F-25%, S-15%, M-10% mix is identified as the most effective and sustainable alternative to conventional concrete, offering improved long-term structural and environmental performance.
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