Comparative Analysis of Adsorbent Pervious Concrete: Engineering Properties and Environmental Consideration

Abstract

This study comprehensively compares various low-cost mineral and industrial waste adsorbents in the Adsorbent Pervious Concrete (APC) mixture, focusing on their engineering properties and environmental aspects. Fine-grained adsorbents, including anthracite, iron slag, lignite, LECA, perlite, pumice, and zeolite, were added at a proportion of 10% by weight of coarse aggregate (0.6-1.2 mm size range). Compressive strength, porosity, and permeability tests were conducted to assess APC's engineering properties, while its efficiency in reducing Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) and Total Suspended Solids (TSS) in urban runoff was examined. ANOVA analysis was performed to evaluate the impact of different adsorbents on APC performance. Results showed that the specific gravity of the adsorbents significantly influenced APC's compressive strength. Anthracite, iron slag, and zeolite increased compressive strength, while all adsorbents, except zeolite, reduced porosity and permeability. Lignite-containing APC exhibited the lowest compressive strength, porosity, and permeability with reductions of 16.12%, 24.7%, and 21.07%, respectively. Furthermore, APC samples demonstrated improved urban runoff quality, with zeolite exhibiting the best performance by reducing COD and TSS by 50.1% and 45.79%, respectively. ANOVA analysis confirmed the substantial influence of different adsorbents on APC's mechanical, physical, and environmental properties. Based on affordability, zeolite, iron slag, and pumice are recommended for use in APC mixtures, offering potential applications in urban areas and building landscaping. This critical analysis provides valuable insights for developing sustainable stormwater management with APC while enhancing its mechanical properties. Further research is encouraged to optimize the selection and utilization of adsorbent materials in APC system.