Potential use of Algerian natural diatomite as pozzolanic and insulator material in cement mortar

Abstract

The aim of this article is to valorize the use of Algerian diatomite as natural pozzolan and insulator material in mortars manufacturing. The diatomite was characterized using X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, and SEM analysis. The pozzolanic activity of the diatomite was assessed by strength activity index according to ASTM C618 standard specification. The mechanical strength and thermal conductivity were investigated on mortar mixtures prepared by replacing cement by 10, 20, 30 and 40% of diatomite. The experimental results indicated that: X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction and pozzolanic activity index tests confirmed the suitability to use the Algerian diatomite as natural pozzolans. The compressive and flexural strengths of mortars containing up to 20% diatomite decrease slightly compared than mortar without diatomite. Finally, the decreasing of thermal conductivity indicates an improvement on thermal insulation of diatomite mortars.