Experimental Investigation on the Workability and Mechanical Properties of Metakaolin Concrete

Abstract

This paper abstract provide the development of high-performance and sustainable concrete has led to the increased use of supplementary cementitious materials(SCMs) such as metakaolin. Metakaolin, a calcined clay, demonstrates excellent pozzolanic reactivity and contributes to enhanced mechanical and durability properties of concrete. This abstract explores the impact of metakaolin as a partial replacement for cement, focusing on mechanical performance, workability, and durability.Utilizing particle packing models and a range of replacement percentages. The metakaolin improves compressive, tensile, and flexura strengths while enhancing resistance to chemical attack and reducing porosity.Optimal improvements were observed at a replacement level of 10-15%. Advancement in construction technology have sparked transformative changes in infrastructure development. Due to the innovative construction around the world and it\'s impact on environment. The requirement to built more sustainable and low maintenance infrastructure has become very important.

Introduction

Concrete is evolving to meet modern structural and environmental needs. One such improvement involves using metakaolin, a highly reactive pozzolanic material, as a partial replacement for cement. This not only enhances strength and durability but also contributes to sustainability by reducing cement use and lowering CO? emissions.

2. Metakaolin Properties & Benefits

• Pozzolanic Reaction: Reacts with calcium hydroxide to form calcium-silicate-hydrate (C-S-H) gel, improving concrete microstructure and strength.

• Durability Enhancements: Improves resistance to chloride penetration, chemical attacks, and shrinkage/creep.

• Microstructure: Leads to denser interfacial transition zones and lower porosity.

• Environmental Benefit: Reduces carbon footprint and supports eco-friendly construction.

3. Literature Review Findings

Several studies investigated the impact of metakaolin in concrete:

• Optimal Replacement Levels: Generally 10%–20% by weight of cement provides the best results.

  • 15% is most commonly cited as optimal for strength and durability.

  • 25% may offer high strength but can reduce workability.

• Key Outcomes Across Studies:

  • Increased compressive, tensile, and flexural strength

  • Improved durability (e.g., resistance to acid, sulfate, and chloride)

  • Lower permeability and refined pore structure

  • Enhanced sustainability via cement reduction

4. Experimental Research Summary

Materials Used:

• OPC (53 Grade)

• Metakaolin (20% by weight replacement)

• Fine & Coarse Aggregates (IS-standard compliant)

• Water & Superplasticizer

Mix Proportions:

Methodology:

• Mixing done in a pan mixer

• Specimens cast and cured as per standards (IS codes)

• Tests conducted:

  • Slump Test (workability)

  • Compressive Strength at 7, 14, and 28 days

Conclusion

The fundamental reason why the adoption of new materials and technology is not becoming popular in our nation is ignorance. Another explanation could be that the field engineers\' difficulties have not been addressed, which would undermine their confidence. The third reason could be that appropriate standard equipment is not readily available. The timing is right to start building \"Technology Demonstration Projects\" because the effectiveness of novel technologies has been shown in multiple case studies conducted under various circumstances. The field engineers must be given trust and involved in all aspects of project preparation and the implementation of such projects. Thorough documentation of all technical and implementation processes is required; this will come in helpful when it comes to spreading the technologies to more field engineers. They will feel more confident as a result, making widespread use of these technologies feasible. The practical demonstration of these initiatives also highlights their cost-effectiveness and resource saving, which could eventually result in environmental preservation [

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Prof. Shital Navghre, Ipshita Paunikar, Samiksha Warurkar, Shubham Chauhan, Madhav Mandal, Dr. Atika Ingole. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.