Evaluation of Compressive Strength of Concrete Using Fly Ash, Silica Fume, and Steel Slag as Cementitious and Aggregate Replacements

Year : 2025 | Volume : 15 | Issue : 03 | Page : 1 6
    By

    Parvat Damor,

  • Harsh Rathore,

Abstract

This study comprehensively investigates the influence of supplementary cementitious materials and industrial by-products—specifically fly ash, silica fume, and steel slag—on the compressive strength of concrete. The primary objective is to evaluate the impact of both individual and combined replacements of cement and aggregate components on concrete performance. The research analyzes how varying proportions of these materials affect the strength characteristics of the concrete mixtures. Experimental results demonstrate that increasing the proportion of fly ash tends to reduce the compressive strength of concrete. For instance, a 20% replacement of cement with fly ash led to a 2.1% decrease in strength, while a 30% replacement caused a more significant reduction of 15.5%. Conversely, incorporating silica fumes up to a 10% replacement level enhanced the compressive strength substantially, achieving an improvement of 21.5% compared to the control mix. Regarding the use of steel slag as a coarse aggregate replacement, the study observed a progressive decline in strength, with a 2% replacement leading to a 5.1% reduction and an 8% replacement resulting in a 10.2% decrease. Similarly, replacing fine aggregates with steel slag also resulted in noticeable strength reductions, particularly at higher replacement levels. However, concrete mixes incorporating a triple combination of fly ash, silica fume, and steel slag demonstrated that compressive strength values remained within acceptable engineering limits. These mixes provided a balanced approach to performance, cost-efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Overall, the findings suggest that while excessive use of certain materials can adversely affect strength, optimized combinations—particularly those including silica fume—can yield durable and sustainable concrete suitable for modern construction needs. The study underscores the potential of strategic material substitutions to enhance the ecological footprint of construction practices without compromising structural integrity.

Keywords: Compressive strength, fly ash, silica fume, steel slag, cementitious materials, aggregate replacement, sustainable concrete, triple-combination mix, supplementary cementitious materials, concrete durability

[This article belongs to Journal of Construction Engineering, Technology & Management ]

How to cite this article:
Parvat Damor, Harsh Rathore. Evaluation of Compressive Strength of Concrete Using Fly Ash, Silica Fume, and Steel Slag as Cementitious and Aggregate Replacements. Journal of Construction Engineering, Technology & Management. 2025; 15(03):1-6.
How to cite this URL:
Parvat Damor, Harsh Rathore. Evaluation of Compressive Strength of Concrete Using Fly Ash, Silica Fume, and Steel Slag as Cementitious and Aggregate Replacements. Journal of Construction Engineering, Technology & Management. 2025; 15(03):1-6. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jocetm/article=2025/view=234960


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 15
Issue 03
Received 05/04/2025
Accepted 15/05/2025
Published 16/12/2025
Publication Time 255 Days
127

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