Suitability of basalt textile reinforced granite-periwinkle shell concrete for sustainable construction in Nigeria

Multiple construction methods have been researched and implemented to reduce the harmful effects of construction on society such as using alternative strengthening materials and aggregates in concrete. This study investigates the suitability of granite (G) - periwinkle shell (PS) as coarse aggregate in concrete for construction. The objectives are to determine the mechanical properties of G-PS concrete confined and not confined in basalt textile (BT), the possibility of achieving lightweight concrete, the durability of the G-PS concrete, and the impact of BT and PS on the construction economy. Slump, density, compressive strength, split tensile, modulus of elasticity, and water absorption tests were conducted on 108 concrete cubes and 180 concrete cylinders and analyzed to determine the behavior of the concrete. From the experiments, the workability of the concrete mix, density, and mechanical properties of the concrete reduced with a decrease in the percentages of granite and an increase in the percentages of PSs. The concrete with 100%G and 0%PS had the highest slump value of 7cm while the concrete with 0%G and 100%PS recorded the lowest slump value of 2.5cm. Confining BT on the concrete cylinders improved their mechanical properties. Though concrete with 100%G and 0%PS proved to have the best strength, this study concludes that PS concrete is suitable for light constructions and load-bearing structural members as the strength of concrete having some percentages of PS proved to be good and even better when confined in BT. It was also observed in a discussion that this concrete type is economical and easy to manage in construction. It is recommended to implement this type of concrete in the construction of structural members because the properties of this concrete are suitable for the Nigerian environment and incorporating PSs in construction is a sustainable means and a way to facilitate the actualization of the sustainable development goal “Sustainable Cities and Communities and Responsible Production and Consumption".