The use of micronized sand as a cement replacement

Due to the high CO2 emissions and scarcity involved in producing cement, ways are sought to reduce the amount of cement needed. In this paper the possibility of using micronized sand as cement replacement is investigated. Material properties are determined and the influence on the cement paste is assessed via workability and strength measurements. It is found that the workability decreases with increasing fineness and higher replacement levels. Strength reduction seems to be slightly more than proportional to the replacement level. Theoretical analysis has been done on the subjects of particle size distribution, specific surface and particle packing. A good correlation is found between the specific surface and the workability indicators. Particle packing models give promising results for optimizing the mix composition. The numerical simulation model HUMPSTRUC3D is used to evaluate the correlation between the simulated contact area of particles in the paste, and strength development measured. Finally discussion is given on economical and environmental aspects.