Investigation of the usability of ground waste nevşehir stone in self-compacting mortar

In this study, the potential of using volcanic tuff stone from Nevşehir region as a mineral additive in self-compacting mortars (SCM) was investigated. In order to reduce the environmental impacts originating from cement production and to evaluate waste materials, Nevşehir stone powder (NTT) was substituted in binary mixtures instead of Portland cement (PC), and NTT and F type fly ash (FBA) were substituted in ternary mixtures, and the strength and durability properties of SCMs obtained from these mixtures in fresh and hardened conditions were investigated. In the experimental study, a total of 8 series were cast and 13 different SCM mixtures were prepared in each series. The prepared SCM samples were subjected to experimental tests such as mini-slump-sprawl, viscosity, three-point bending strength, compressive strength, total water absorption, porosity, capillary water absorption, high temperature, freeze-thaw and microstructure (SEM, EDS and XRD) analyses. According to the results, the use of NTT instead of cement at a rate of 5-10% was determined as the most suitable range in terms of workability and strength properties. As long as these rates are not exceeded, it is evaluated that KYHs containing NTT can be an alternative to traditional mortars. However, it has been observed that NTT content of 15% and above increases porosity and negatively affects mechanical strength and durability. As a result, the use of ground waste Nevşehir stone at certain rates can both contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing cement consumption and enable the development of economical and durable alternative binding systems in the construction sector.