Durability of Basalt fiber-reinforced aeolian sand concrete in extreme environments: Resistance to wind-sand erosion and salt freeze-thaw cycles

Abstract

This study investigates the mechanical properties and durability of basalt fiber aeolian sand concrete (BF-ASC) under wind-sand erosion (WSE) and salt freeze-thaw cycles (SFTC). The research explores the individual and combined effects of basalt fiber (BF) content (0.10 %, 0.15 %, 0.20 %) and aeolian sand (AS) substitution ratios (20 % and 100 %) on concrete properties. Mechanical tests include compressive, splitting tensile, and flexural strength, while durability tests focus on WSE and SFTC resistance. Base on the experimental results, several major findings are undisclosed. It is found that concrete with 20 % AS replacement and 0.15–0.20 % BF content significantly exhibits enhanced mechanical- and durability- related properties. A three-dimensional blue light scanning technique effectively quantifies the surface damage of AS concrete after WSE, demonstrating that 20 % AS based concrete has the least surface porosity and higher stability in surface roughness post-erosion, while 100 % AS concrete shows severe erosion effects, including mortar detachment and increased pitting. Moreover, the characterizations at the microstructural level demonstrates that a content AS incorporation (20 %) improves internal structure and hence the SFTC durability, with less pores and cracks compared to the companion conventional concrete. This research contributes vital insights into BF-ASC behavior under extreme conditions, offering guidance for optimal mix designs in harsh environments. The findings have significant implications for sustainable construction practices, particularly in regions facing challenges of desert sand utilization and severe environmental conditions.