From geological waste to sustainable infrastructure: Multi-Criteria analysis of granite powder in fiber-reinforced cementitious composites

This study comprehensively examines the impact of waste granite (WG) and polypropylene (PP) fiber additives on cement-based composites, aiming to reduce natural resource consumption in the construction sector and utilize industrial waste. WG was used as a substitute for fine aggregate at 0-100 % and was evaluated in conjunction with a fixed-rate PP fiber additive (3 % by volume). Mechanical tests revealed that the WG100 mixture performed best, with a 38 % increase in compressive strength and a 49 % reduction in porosity. The best flexural toughness was obtained with the WG25 mixture (7.53 J). In tests conducted at temperatures above 800 degrees C, the WG additive was observed to significantly enhance thermal stability and improve crack control in PP fibers. In the sustainability analysis, the WG100 mixture significantly reduced environmental impacts, with 36.6 % lower carbon emissions and 32.4 % lower energy consumption per unit of concrete compared to the reference mixture. According to the multi-criteria sustainability analysis, WG100 was the best blend, scoring 81.4 points. These data demonstrate the potential to transform granite waste into high-performance, low-impact construction materials. The results obtained offer an innovative concrete design that enhances technical strength while reducing the carbon footprint, supporting resource efficiency, and contributing to the circular economy. In this respect, the study proposes a holistic and practical approach to sustainable construction technologies.