Microstructural characteristics, porosity and strength development in ceramic-laterized concrete

The reference mix yielded higher mechanical properties than the concrete containing secondary aggregates, this was traced to be as a result of higher peaks of hydration minerals of the concrete, coupled with its low tortuosity and compactness. However, a laterized concrete mix containing both 90% of ceramic fine and 10% of laterite as fine aggregate provided the optimal strength out of all the modified mixes. Although, the strength reduction was about 9% when compared with the reference case, however, this reduction in strength is acceptable, and does not compromise the use of these alternative aggregates in structural concrete.