Authors:
Musa Resheidat; Buthainah Al-Kharabsheh;
Abstract:
This study aims at using some of the available rocks in Jordan after grinding and processing as pigments to
produce colored concrete. It also aims at studying the properties of colored concrete that could be used in the
production of concrete products, such as curb stones, wall panels, claddings and many other precast elements
in comparison in lieu of imported pigments. Realizing the objectives of this research and within the scope of
this study, the physical and mechanical properties of such materials have been recorded and documented. The
experimental investigation has dealt with the mechanical properties of hardened concrete by testing
specimens in compression, direct tension, splitting and flexure. The obtained results have been compared with
the well-known empirical code formulae. The color of the produced concrete can only be judged by
inspection. The microstructure of the produced concrete was studied by using XRD and SEM analyses to
investigate the bond between the aggregates and the colored paste. Beam analysis was used to determine the
elements in the resulting matrix. It should be noted that no additives, admixtures or any other workability
agents, such as accelerators or retarders, were used. Of prime concern was to produce colored concrete and
achieve a realistic concrete strength. Recommendations for further research were also outlined.
Keywords:
Colored concrete, SEM, XRD, White cement, Zeolite tuff, Zircon sand