Exploring waste marble dust as an additive in cementitious grouts for semi-flexible pavement applications: Analysis and optimization using RSM

This research aims to explore the potential utilization of waste marble dust (MD) within cementitious grouts for applications in semi-flexible pavements, a hybrid pavement type combining the benefits of both flexible and rigid pavements. MD was used to replace cement (ranging from 0 to 25%), combined with w/c ratios of 0.35 to 0.50, in the formulation of cementitious grouts. The assessment of grout characteristics encompassed evaluations of flowability and compressive strength (7d and 28d curing). Moreover, the microstructural characteristics of cement grouts incorporating MD were scrutinized through Scanning electron microscope-SEM and Energy dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy-EDS analyses. Additionally, response surface methodology (RSM) was used for experimental design, analysis, and the optimization of the factors (MD and w/c ratio). The significance of the model was examined through various statistical indicators. The optimal composition of cementitious grouts was determined using optimization technique within the RSM framework. Furthermore, optimal grout combinations were employed in fabricating semi-flexible mixtures and evaluated for Marshall stability, moisture susceptibility, indirect tensile stiffness modulus, dynamic modulus, compressive strength, and resistance to fuel spillage. The results indicated that an optimal combination of 15% waste marble dust and a 0.40 w/c ratio was identified through optimization techniques within the RSM methodology. Furthermore, Analysis of variance formula-ANOVA outcomes exhibiting a higher R² value (>0.80) and higher adequate precision (>4.0) underscore the significance of the proposed models, revealing a robust correlation between experimental and predicted data. The semi-flexible mixtures also showcase superior performance in terms of Marshall stability, stiffness, dynamic modulus, moisture resistance, and resistance to fuel spillage. Moreover, the integration of waste marble dust in cementitious grouts for constructing semi-flexible pavements not only addresses disposal concerns but also contributes to environmental sustainability.