Estudo da substituição da areia por pó de pedra na produção de concretos convencionais

Abstract

The construction industry is one of the most relevant sectors for socioeconomic development, being directly linked to urban expansion and the intensive consumption of natural resources. In recent decades, the search for sustainable alternatives—especially those involving the replacement of conventional materials with industrial or mining waste—has intensified. Within this context, the present study investigated the replacement of natural sand with stone powder, a residue derived from the crushing of rolled pebbles, in order to assess the technical and environmental feasibility of this practice in the production of conventional concrete. Three different mix designs were produced: concrete with 100% natural sand, concrete with partial replacement (50% sand and 50% stone powder), and concrete with total replacement of sand by stone powder (100% stone powder). The aggregates were characterized by granulometric analysis, density, and water absorption. Subsequently, the concrete specimens were tested for consistency (slump), compressive strength at 14 and 28 days, and capillary water absorption. The results showed that although total sand replacement reduced workability, there was no significant compromise in the concrete's mechanical performance. On the other hand, the mixture with partial replacement showed good compressive strength, workability and absorption. Thus, using stone powder proves to be a technically and environmentally viable alternative, contributing to more sustainable practices in the construction industry.