In a groundbreaking study that could reshape the construction industry’s approach to sustainable materials, researchers have developed an innovative method to optimize quaternary mortar mix designs. The study, led by Minseok Nam from the Department of Oceanic Architectural Engineering at the National Korea Maritime & Ocean University, focuses on reducing cement usage and promoting the effective utilization of industrial by-products. This research, published in the *International Journal of Concrete Structures and Materials* (translated as “국제 콘크리트 구조 및 재료 학술지”), offers a promising solution for the energy sector and beyond.
The research team employed Taguchi–grey relational analysis (GRA) to develop a mortar mix design that incorporates municipal solid waste incineration fly ash (MSWIFA), ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS), and fly ash (FA) as supplementary cementitious materials. This approach not only reduces the reliance on traditional cement but also addresses the environmental challenges posed by industrial by-products.
“Our goal was to find the optimal replacement ratios for these materials to achieve the best balance of flowability, compressive strength, and cost efficiency,” explained Nam. The study utilized the L9 orthogonal array to reduce the number of experiments and mix combinations by approximately 33%, making the process more efficient and cost-effective.
The Taguchi–GRA method enabled the researchers to evaluate the contribution of each parameter to individual responses, ultimately determining the optimal mix design. The results showed that a combination of 2.5% MSWIFA, 20% GGBFS, and 20% FA yielded the most favorable balance of flowability, compressive strength, and cost analysis. This finding was verified through confirmatory experiments, supporting the effectiveness of the Taguchi–GRA-based mix design approach.
The implications of this research are significant for the construction and energy sectors. By reducing cement usage and promoting the use of industrial by-products, the study offers a sustainable solution that can help lower carbon emissions and reduce waste. “This approach not only benefits the environment but also provides a cost-effective solution for the construction industry,” said Nam.
The study’s findings could pave the way for future developments in the field of sustainable construction materials. As the demand for eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions continues to grow, the Taguchi–GRA-based mix design approach offers a promising avenue for innovation. The research highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the potential for advanced analytical methods to drive progress in the construction industry.
In conclusion, the study led by Minseok Nam represents a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable construction materials. By optimizing quaternary mortar mix designs, the research offers a viable solution for reducing cement usage and promoting the effective utilization of industrial by-products. The findings published in the *International Journal of Concrete Structures and Materials* provide a solid foundation for future research and development in this critical area.