USO DO PÓ DE GRANITO COMO SUBSTITUTO PARCIAL DA AREIA EM CONCRETOS DE ALTO DESEMPENHO PARA INDÚSTRIA DE PRÉ-MOLDADOS

Abstract

This study addresses the use of granite powder as a partial replacement for natural sand in the production of high-performance concrete (HPC) intended for the precast industry. The topic is part of the ongoing search for sustainable alternatives in civil construction, considering that the processing of ornamental stones generates large volumes of fine waste, whose improper disposal causes significant environmental impacts. In this context, incorporating granite powder into concrete represents an environmentally viable alternative, contributing to waste reuse and the reduction of natural resource consumption. The main objective is to evaluate the technical feasibility of partially replacing natural sand with granite powder, analyzing the effects of this substitution on the physical and mechanical properties of concrete. The methodology applied was of an experimental nature, carried out at the Civil Engineering Laboratory of Centro Universitário do Sul de Minas (UNIS), where cylindrical specimens were molded and subjected to axial compressive strength tests at 7 and 28 days of curing, following ABNT standards. Material characterization and pozzolanic activity tests were also performed according to ABNT NBR 5752:2014. The results indicated that granite powder presents physical characteristics suitable for use as a partial replacement for fine aggregate, with intermediate substitution levels improving the mixture’s compactness while maintaining adequate compressive strength. These findings highlight the potential of granite powder as an alternative material for high-performance concrete, contributing to the development of more sustainable construction practices. [Conclusion to be added after final results.]