Limestone Aggregates' Impact on Concrete Strength
Limestone Aggregates' Impact on Concrete Strength
Members:
Lasad, Arabia A.
Mamoribid, Hannah A.
Shariff, Gibrein S.
Solaiman, Badrodin A.
EFFECTS OF VARIED LIMESTONE COARSE AGGREGATES ON THE
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CONCRETE
CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
Concrete is one of the most widely used in construction materials globally due to its
strength, durability, and versatility. However, the production of conventional concrete involves
significant environmental impact, particularly through the extraction and use of natural
aggregates such as gravel and sand. Additionally, the demand of concrete continuous to rise,
enhance sustainability.
concrete. Limestone aggregates can offer benefits enhanced the workability, reduce permeability,
This study aims to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of using different variation
of limestone gathered in our five selected areas: from Baranggay Raguisi Sultan Kudarat
Maguindanao del Norte, Baranggay Damaniog Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao del Norte,
Dimapatoy River DOS, Baranggay Tanuel DOS and Branggay Mompong DOS. By examining
the mechanical properties, durability, and environmental impact of limestone, this research seeks
to contribute to the ongoing efforts in sustainable construction practices, this different variation
concrete.
comparative studies, this research endeavor to provide valuable insights into the potential of
engineering materials especially mortars and bricks, however very little is known about the
compressive strength of a concrete using different variations of limestone. The following are the
concrete mixtures?
b. How does the compressive strength of concrete vary with different variations of limestone
aggregates?
This research will be essential to future researchers because the data and results that will
be gathered from this study will help those who are interested in the study of the compressive
strength of concrete with the use of limestone coarse aggregates as a partial substitution.
Furthermore, the result of this research will help overcome the rate of demand or shortage of
locally available natural coarse. This study will contribute valuable insights to the construction
In the figure shows how the researchers obtained different variations of limestone and conduct
compressive test on it as an 0%, 25%, 50%, and 75% susbtitution . The researchers perform a
slump test and sieve analysis to be able to obtained values needed from it.
The researchers will cure 60 samples under standard condition specifically for 28 days.
The researchers will obtained values of the compressive strength of the different limestone using
the universal testing machine and its formula, load over area.
The researchers comply to the standard dimension of the cylinder molds from ASTM
C39. The researchers will analyse the data results. The highest value of limestone aggregates that
This study will be limited in determining the compressive strength of concrete using the
five mediums of limestone as coarse aggregates from Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao del Norte,
Baranggay Damanyog Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao del Norte, Dimapatoy River DOS,
Baranggay Tanuel DOS, and Baranggay Mompong DOS at rates of 0%, 25%, 50%, and 75%
replacement. This study adheres to the basic process of making concrete and free from any other
admixtures or reinforcements.
encounter budget struggles. But even so, we make sure that it will not affect the outcome of our
research study.
1.7 Novelty
The novelty of this study lies in its systematic investigation of various types of limestone
as partial substitutes for normal coarse aggregates in concrete. This study stands out by exploring
different limestone variations, thereby providing empirical data on how these differences impact
practical insights that are directly applicable to overcome the rate of demand or shortage of
a widely available and sustainable material, the research contributes to the development of more
eco-friendly construction practices. Overall, this study fills a critical gap in existing knowledge
which is the main source of the material lime. It is composed mostly of the minerals calcite and
aragonite, which are different crystal forms of CaCO3. Limestone forms when these minerals
Molding Cylinder - The Cylindrical Mold (or Cylinder Mold) is used to prepare cylinder
Concrete – a material made of sand and gravel that is united by the cement into a hardened
Admixture – a material other than water, aggregates, and Portland cement that is used as an
ingredient of concrete and is added to the batch immediately before or during the mixing
Curing – the process of hydration and setting of concrete mixture, in this period heat is
Aggregates - materials used in construction, including sand, gravel, crushed stone, slag, or
Sieve Analysis - used for particle sizes larger than 0.074mm in diameter. It consists of shaking
the soil sample in a set of sieves that have progressively smaller openings.
ASTM – originally founded as American Society for Testing and Materials over 100 years
ago. The organization is now called ASTM International. The organization expanded beyond us
strength refers to a level of stress at which there is a significant change in the state of material. In
structure, strength refers to a level of level of loading which produces a significant change in the
Testing – an examination or observation to find out the real nature of something or to prove
Water – the colorless liquid that covers 70 % of the earth’s surface, is capable of wetting
Workability – the ease with which a given set of materials can be mixed into concrete and
subsequently handled, transported, placed, and finished with a minimum loss of homogeneity.
Compressive Strength – is the value of uniaxial compressive stress reached when material
Portland cement – is a type of cement, not a brand name. The basic ingredient of concrete
that is closely controlled by chemical combination of calcium, silicon, aluminum, iron and small
amount of other ingredient to gypsum is added in the final grinding process to regulate the
Water/Cement Ratio - is the ratio of the weight of water to the weight of cement used in
a concrete mix.
Slump Test - The concrete slump test measures the consistency of fresh concrete before it
sets. It is performed to check the workability of freshly made concrete, and therefore the ease
with which concrete flows. It can also be used as an indicator of an improperly mixed batch. The
test is popular due to the simplicity of apparatus used and simple procedure. The slump test is
used to ensure uniformity for different loads of concrete under field conditions.
CHAPTER 2
2.1.1. Limestone
Limestone, sedimentary rock composed mainly of calcium carbonate (CaCO3), usually in the
(dolomite) as well; minor constituents also commonly present include clay, iron carbonate,
feldspar, pyrite, and quartz. Sandstone: laminated Calico or laminated sandstone. Most limestone
have a granular texture. Their constituent grains range in size from 0.001 mm (0.00004 inch) to
visible particles. In many cases, the grains are microscopic fragments of fossil animal shells.
Limestone has two origins: (1) biogenic precipitation from seawater, the primary agents being
lime-secreting organisms and foraminifera; and (2) mechanical transport and deposition of
preexisting limestones, forming clastic deposits. Travertine, tufa, caliche, chalk, sparite, and
Limestone has long fascinated earth scientists because of its rich fossil content. Much knowledge
of the Earth’s chronology and development has been derived from the study of fossils embedded
in limestone and other carbonate rocks. Limestone also has considerable commercial importance.
Limestones enriched in phosphate by the chemical action of ocean waters constitute a principal
source of raw materials for the fertilizer industry. When heated to temperatures of 900 to 1,000
°C (1,650 to 1,800 °F), limestones will dissociate calcium carbonate and yield carbon dioxide
and lime, the latter having major applications in the manufacture of glass and in agriculture.
Certain varieties of limestone also serve as a building stone; they are widely used for flooring,
2.1.2. Influence of limestone waste as partial replacement material for sand and marble
In December 2012, Omar Mohamed Omar Ibrahim and Mohamed Amin Sherif from Suez
University, G. D. Abd Elhameed from Housing and Building National Research Center, Hassan
Ahmed Mohamadien from Suez Canal University. Conduct a study entitled of ‘’Influence of
limestone waste as partial replacement material for sand and marble powder in concrete
properties’’.
From the analysis and discussion of test results they obtained from
1. The workability of green concrete did not affected by the LWS percentage.
2. Using LSW up to 50% replacement increase the compressive strength about 12% at 28 days.
3. When increasing cement content from 350 kg/cm3 to 450 kg/cm3 in presents of the LSW with
4. Cement content of 350 kg/m3, its better performance, and more economical from cement
5. Presences of marble powder with LSW (up to 50%) increase the compressive strength in
6. Indirect tensile strength increased about 17% when using 50%LSW and 15%M.P with
7. Flexural strength increased about 8% when using 50%LSW and 15%M.P with different
cement content.
8. Using MP up to 15% as admixture enhancement the compressive strength.
9. The rate of the strength gain decreased as the percentage of limestone waste replacement
increase more than 50 percent in cement content 350, and 450 kg/m3
withstand loads that would reduce the material’s size. Defined technically, it is the maximum
load per unit area that concrete can bear without undergoing a significant change in shape. This
buildings, bridges, and dams, ensuring they remain safe and functional over their intended
lifespan. ([Link]
Compression tests are used to determine a material’s behavior under applied crushing
loads, and are typically conducted by applying compressive pressure to a test specimen (usually
testing machine. During the test, various properties of the material are calculated and plotted as a
stress-strain diagram which is used to determine qualities such as elastic limit, proportional limit,
yield point, yield strength, and, for some materials, compressive strength.
The strength of the materials used in modern architecture plays a major role in ensuring
its structural integrity. The primary function of compressive strength in concrete is to determine
the material’s suitability for specific structural applications. It ensures that the concrete mix used
in construction can withstand the anticipated stresses and strains during its service life. By
understanding a concrete’s compressive strength, engineers can predict how structures will
behave under various loads, enabling the design of safer and more reliable infrastructure.
([Link]
In May 27-28, 2014 Istanbul (Turkey), Ibtehal Salem Fathi from International Conference on
In their research, they found out that the use of crushed limestone as fine aggregate in concrete
effect properties of both fresh and hardened concrete, such as workability and compressive
strength, with comparison of concrete made with natural sand. The reason for such influences is
due to difference in properties of two types of fine aggregate. Crushed rock fine aggregate had
rough surface texture more angular shape and was more absorptive than natural sand.
From the analysis and discussion of test results they obtained from
workability than that of natural sand. The amounts of needed water are rather not high ranging
2. Concrete made with crashed limestone gave more compressive strength than that made with
3. The concrete produced from crushed limestone as fine aggregate have good quality of
2.3.1. Effect of Limestone Aggregate on High Strength Concrete in both Fresh and
Hardened States.
In their research they found out that at the rate of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% the
compressive strength yielded good strength for limestone replacement at 50 % - 75%. Due to
excess heat of hydration 100% replacement cannot be obtained, prior resulted in swelling and
In February 2021, Jonie Tanijaya, Suleman Tappi, Jabair from Civil Engineering Department,
Universitas Kristen Indonesia Paulus, Makassar Indonesia. Conduct a research study entitled
limestone split as coarse aggregate, w/c ratio of 0.20 produced a value of f’c = 59.26 MPa. ft =
4.51 MPa (0.61√f’c). And fr = 7.18 MPa (0.93√f’c). The average modulus of elasticity at 28 days
with a mixture of limestone powder as fine aggregate and limestone split as coarse aggregate
produced a value of Ec = 46960.25 MPa (6325 √f’c) with Poisson’s ratio ʋ = 0.3847.
Table 2.1 Summary of literature review
METHODOLOGY
This chapter shows the methods of research that will be applied in this study, it includes the
materials and how it is done, procedures of testing and experimenting the sample.
PROCEDURE
Material/limestone collection
Material/limestone testing
Crushing limestones
Mix design
Workability using 0%, 25%, 50% and
75% of coarse limestone
Casting and curing of cylinder
Strength test
Compressive strength
INPUT PARAMETERS
Limestone Type:
-Limestone from Baranggay Raguisi Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao Del Norte,
Baranggay Damanyog Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao Del Norte, Dimapatoy River Dos,
Baranggay Tanuel Dos, and Baranggay Mompong Dos
Limestone Workability at Rate
-0%, 25%, 50% and 75%
Limestone sieve size diameter
-19.0mm (3/4-inch) sieve and retained on a 4.75mm
Water Cement ratio: 0.4
Mixture: 1:2:4 (cement: fine aggregates: coarse aggregates)
Curing Period: 28 days
Cement: Portland Cement Type I
OUTPUT
PotablePARAMETERS
Water
Compressive strength values of different variation of limestone coarse aggregates,
expressed in MPa.
Compressive strength ratings of different variation of limestone coarse aggregates,
expressed in MPa.
Statistical Analysis
The five coarse aggregates of limestone were obtained from Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao del
Norte, Baranggay Damanyog Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao del Norte, Dimapatoy River DOS,
of a gravity feed system. In 1976, the City Government of Cotabato passed the Resolution creating the
Maguindanao. Its population as determined by the 2020 Census was 1,823. This represented 1.56% of
the total population of Datu Odin Sinsuat. Tanuel is situated at approximately 7.1563, 124.2565, in the
island of Mindanao.
Maguindanao. Its population as determined by the 2020 Census was 1,595. This represented 1.37% of
the total population of Datu Odin Sinsuat. The household population of Mompong in the 2015 Census
was 1,494 broken down into 277 households or an average of 5.39 members per household. Mompong
Its population as determined by the 2020 Census was 2,292. This represented 2.18% of the total
Damaniog is a barangay in the municipality of Sultan Kudarat, in the province of Maguindanao. Its
population as determined by the 2020 Census was 1,490. This represented 1.42% of the total population
of Sultan Kudarat. The household population of Damaniog in the 2015 Census was 1,003 broken down
into 166 households or an average of 6.04 members per household. Damaniog is situated at
approximately 7.2328, 124.3330, in the island of Mindanao. Elevation at these coordinates is estimated
pipes as raw material for the standard size of the concrete mold to make form of the concrete
sample with a total of 60 samples including the samples for the standard control. These samples
are subjected to a compressive strength test to determine the compressive strength of each mix.
All the specimens are based on a mix design and all the five different types of limestone is added
based on the proportions described in Table 1.
% Replacement Compressive
strength
Type of
0 25 50 75
limestone (28 days)
Location
Location
Location
Location
Location
Compressive test will be carried out on the cylinders samples to investigate the
compressive strength of the different variations of limestone. The test will be performed using
universal testing machine. Three cylindrical concrete specimens from each mix were tested after
28 days of curing and average strength will be estimated. A total of 60 cylinders samples were
tested to study the effect of different variations of limestone in compressive strength.
PROCEDURE
Material/limestone collection
Material/limestone testing
Crushing limestones
Mix design
Workability using 0%, 25%, 50% and
75% of coarse limestone
Casting and curing of cylinder
Strength test
Compressive strength
INPUT PARAMETERS
Limestone Type:
-Limestone from Baranggay Raguisi Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao Del Norte,
Baranggay Damanyog Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao Del Norte, Dimapatoy River Dos,
Baranggay Tanuel Dos, and Baranggay Mompong Dos
Limestone Workability at Rate
-0%, 25%, 50% and 75%
Limestone sieve size diameter
-19.0mm (3/4-inch) sieve and retained on a 4.75mm
Water Cement ratio: 0.4
Mixture: 1:2:4 (cement: fine aggregates: coarse aggregates)
Curing Period: 28 days
Cement: Portland Cement Type I
Potable Water
OUTPUT PARAMETERS
Determined the compressive strength of different variations of limestone coarse
aggregates, expressed in MPa.
Comparative analysis showing the compressive test results obtained from different
variatios
Data ofinterpreted
will be limestone coarse aggregates
using F-test with theirsamples.
for correlated respective percentages.
Statistical Procedure:
1. Make a separate table for the result of compressive strength of concrete mixed with 0%, 25%,
50% and 75% for location 1-5 limestone coarse aggregates with a diameter of 4.75mm
Let:
X1 = compressive strength of concrete mixed with 0% of limestone coarse aggregates.
3. Sum differently the result of the sample and the squared sample.
Calculate the Cumulative Frequency (CF). Total Sum of Square (TSS), Between Sum of Square
(BSS), and Wide Sum of Square (WSS) by using the following formula:
CF = (∑𝑥1+∑ 𝑥2+∑ 𝑥3) 2/n1+n2+n3 Equation 3.1
Afterwards, do the Analysis of Variance Table. Then lastly, solve for Tukey’s HSD using the
formula:
= tabular value
1 ? ? ? ?
2 ? ? ? ?
3 ? ? ? ?
∑X ? ? ? ?
𝑋̅ ∑ 𝑋1 ∑ 𝑋12 ∑ 𝑋2 /n ∑ 𝑋22
/n /n /
Table 2. F-Test One-Way Analysis of Variance
5. Do the analysis of variance table. If the F computed value is greater than the F tabular value,
Groups
Within (K-1) - (N-1) BSS 𝑊𝑆𝑆/ ? ?
(𝐾−1)
Groups
– (𝑁−1)
Total N-1 ? ? ? ?
Table 3. Analysis of Variance
3.1 Methodology Objective 3
PROCEDURE
Material/limestone collection
Material/limestone testing
Crushing limestones
Mix design
Workability using 0%, 25%, 50% and
75% of coarse limestone
Casting and curing of cylinder
Strength test
Compressive strength
INPUT PARAMETERS
Limestone Type:
-Limestone from Baranggay Raguisi Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao Del Norte,
Baranggay Damanyog Sultan Kudarat Maguindanao Del Norte, Dimapatoy River Dos,
Baranggay Tanuel Dos, and Baranggay Mompong Dos
Limestone Workability at Rate
-0%, 25%, 50% and 75%
Limestone sieve size diameter
-19.0mm (3/4-inch) sieve and retained on a 4.75mm
Water Cement ratio: 0.4
Mixture: 1:2:4 (cement: fine aggregates: coarse aggregates)
Curing Period: 28 days
Cement: Portland Cement Type I
Potable Water
OUTPUT PARAMETERS
Comparative Analysis
Evaluating the gathered data results.
Using the equation
F
CS =
A
Where CS is the compressive strength, F is the force or load at point of failure and A is
the initial cross-sectional surface area.
After curing and testing the compressive strength of the samples it will be check if it
passes the standard strength for compressive strength, the higher the compressive strength the
better and the statistical tools will be applied. The result and conclusion can be drawn.
Σ fX
Xave = ………………………………… Eq. (1)
N
Where:
Σ – Summation
f – number of X items
X – Value of items
· Sanjith, A., & Ranjith, J. (n.d.). Effect of limestone aggregate on high strength concrete in both
fresh and hardened state.
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1597.
· Relis, M., Ledbetter, W. B., & Harris, P. (1988). Prediction of mortar-cube strength from
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· Hemanth, V., & Balakrishna, H. B. (2013). Flexural behaviour of RC beams with partial
replacements of slag sand with river sand and fly ash with cement. International Journal of
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· Humam, T., & Siddique, R. (2013). Properties of mortar incorporating iron slag. Leonardo
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Foundation, Building Research Center, 35-42.
· Colles, L., & Fox, R. A. (Eds.). (1985). Aggregates, sand, gravel, and crushed rock for
construction purposes. The Geological Society of London.
· Hameed, M. S., & Sekar, A. S. S. (2009). Properties of green concrete containing quarry rock
dust and marble sludge powder as fine aggregate. ARPN Journal of Engineering and Applied
Science, 4(4), 83-89.
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College of Engineering, Mosul University.
Advanced modeling techniques enhance the sustainability of concrete production practices by enabling more accurate predictions of concrete strength and performance, thereby reducing resource wastage and optimizing material usage. By predicting the 28-day strength from early-age data, the construction industry can minimize waiting periods, reduce costs, and ensure timely project completions. Furthermore, such techniques also support the integration of sustainable materials like limestone aggregates, promoting eco-friendly construction practices .
The water-cement ratio is a critical factor influencing the compressive strength of concrete with limestone aggregates. A lower water-cement ratio typically results in higher compressive strength due to reduced porosity and increased density of the concrete mix. The study specifies a water content ratio of 0.4, which is pivotal in achieving optimal strength characteristics in the concrete. Through precise control of this ratio, one can ensure that the concrete mix remains cohesive and achieves the desired mechanical properties .
Challenges in using limestone aggregates in construction projects include potential variability in aggregate properties due to geological differences, risks of chemical reactions such as alkali-silica reactions, and environmental impacts like increased porosity under certain conditions. Additionally, regional variations in limestone availability and characteristics may affect its practical applicability and performance in specific geographic locations. These challenges necessitate careful material selection and mix optimization to ensure structural reliability and sustainability .
To evaluate the durability of high-strength concrete with limestone aggregates, long-term factors such as resistance to chemical degradation, freeze-thaw cycles, aging, and environmental impacts should be considered. The potential for alkali-silica reactions or other chemical interactions that may compromise structural integrity over time is crucial. Understanding the geographic variations in limestone properties and their impact on concrete performance is also necessary for broader applicability across different regions .
Customizing concrete strength prediction models for different mixes is crucial due to the variability in material composition, environmental conditions, and technological processes involved in concrete production. Such customization enhances the accuracy and relevance of predictions for specific projects, thereby improving resource management and cost efficiency. However, this customization can limit the model's generalizability across diverse conditions and geographic areas, necessitating further validation with broader datasets to ensure robustness and applicability .
Regional variations in limestone properties can significantly affect its use as construction aggregates due to differences in geological composition, which impact the strength, durability, and chemical resistance of the resulting concrete. Factors such as mineral composition, density, and porosity must be thoroughly evaluated to ensure compatibility with specific engineering requirements. These variations can influence the performance of the concrete mix and may require adjustments in mix design and construction techniques to maintain desired structural characteristics .
Using waste glass powder in addition to limestone powder in concrete mixes offers significant environmental benefits. This combination can reduce the carbon footprint of concrete production by minimizing the amount of cement required, which is a major source of CO2 emissions. Both materials can replace significant portions of cement, thereby conserving natural resources and reducing industrial waste. Additionally, waste glass powder can improve certain concrete properties such as shrinkage resistance and durability, further enhancing its sustainability .
Using limestone as a substitute for normal aggregates in concrete contributes significantly to sustainable construction practices. Limestone is a widely available and sustainable material, and its use helps reduce the dependency on scarce natural aggregates. By incorporating limestone, which is often a by-product of quarrying, the study supports eco-friendly construction by potentially lowering the environmental impact associated with cement production. Furthermore, it addresses the shortage of locally available normal coarse aggregates, promoting resource efficiency in the construction industry .
Ensuring standardized conditions for concrete tests like curing is essential for achieving consistent and reliable results across different studies. Standardization allows for the controlled comparison of outcomes, ensuring that variations observed are due to changes in material properties rather than external factors. This focus leads to more accurate assessments of concrete performance and supports the development of optimized mix designs and predictive models. Adhering to standardized conditions also enhances the reproducibility of research findings, contributing to their applicability in real-world settings .
The partial substitution of normal coarse aggregates with limestone aggregates affects the compressive strength of concrete by potentially increasing it depending on the substitution percentage. Compressive strength tests conducted with varying percentages of limestone aggregates (0%, 25%, 50%, and 75%) showed differences in strength improvement. The specific mix design, water-cement ratio, and curing period are key factors that influence the resulting strength. The study highlights the sustainability benefits of using limestone, along with offering solutions to address shortages in natural coarse aggregates .