Journal of Structural and Construction Engineering

Journal of Structural and Construction Engineering

An Experimental Study on the Mechanical Behavior and Durability of Concrete Containing Different Proportions of Coffee Waste

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Associate professor of the Faculty of Engineering, Civil Engineering Department, Urmia Branch, Islamic Azad University, Urmia, Iran
2 M.Sc. Student of Soil and Foundation Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, Urmia Branch, Islamic Azad University, Urmia, Iran
Abstract
Today, with the increasing population of metropolitan areas and changes in lifestyle, waste production has significantly increased. This highlights the necessity of developing recycling infrastructure and utilizing these materials in the construction industry more than ever. One type of recyclable waste that can be used in building materials is coffee grounds. Currently, coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world. In recent years, coffee consumption in Iran has grown significantly. Coffee grounds account for a considerable amount of waste, and there is no effective mechanism for recycling them. In this research, to recycle coffee waste in concrete, five mix designs with varying ratios of 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10% by weight of cement were used. The conducted tests include assessing slump, compressive strength, tensile strength, initial and secondary water absorption, acid durability, and the microstructure of concrete. The results of this research showed that the use of coffee waste in concrete initially increases its compressive strength. However, as the setting age increases, the 90-day compressive strength decreases, and the cement paste deteriorates. On the other hand, coffee waste contains compounds that enhance its durability against acids. Therefore, the more coffee waste in the concrete, the greater the acid durability, and the damage caused by acids decreases. Overall, using small amounts (maximum of 5%) can be applied in landscaping, exposed concrete, and flooring
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Volume 12, Issue 07 - Serial Number 96
October 2025
Pages 156-182

  • Receive Date 11 April 2025
  • Revise Date 06 June 2025
  • Accept Date 12 July 2025