Mechanical properties and interfacial transition zone microstructure of concrete with waste basalt powder addition

This study evaluates the use of waste basalt powder as a replacement of the fine aggregate to enhance concrete properties. Experiments were carried out to determine the compressive and flexural strengths of concrete with basalt powder and the influence of the basalt powder on the microstructure of the ITZ. Results indicate that addition of basalt powder as a replacement of sand, improves the compressive and flexural strength of concrete. It is mainly due to the filler effect of the basalt powder. The ITZ in concrete with basalt powder addition is denser and stronger than in concrete without basalt.