Effect of accelerated climatic ageing on the behavior of cement plaster made out of quarry dust

Abstract

This study investigates the long-term durability and mechanical performance of cement plaster incorporating 100% quarry dust as a sustainable replacement for river sand, with a focus on behavior under accelerated climatic ageing. Two mix ratios commonly used in external (1:4) and internal (1:6) wall plastering were prepared using both river sand and quarry dust as fine aggregates. Workability was evaluated using flow table tests, while compressive strength and water absorption were measured over a six-week period involving repeated thermal shock cycles to simulate severe environmental conditions. Results showed that quarry dust mixtures required significantly more water to achieve standard workability due to their angular and poorly graded particle structure. Despite this, all quarry dust-based mixes consistently exceeded the 3 MPa compressive strength threshold after ageing, comparable to river sand controls. Initial strength reductions from thermal shocks were mitigated by ongoing hydration, particularly in quarry dust specimens, while water absorption stabilized as calcium silicate hydrate developed. The findings demonstrate that quarry dust is a viable and durable alternative to river sand in cement plaster, supporting sustainable construction practices and resource conservation in regions facing sand scarcity.