A review on the utilisation of quarry and ornamental stone industry fine by-products in the construction sector

Abstract Quarry dust and marble sludge, produced in large quantities from quarries, aggregates and ornamental stone plants, constitute a severe environmental problem. The use of these materials in construction applications, could lead to both economic and environmental benefits. This paper reviews the recent research studies on the production of cement-based building materials related to the use of the above by-products either as aggregates or as cement replacement materials. Studies were examined in terms of constituent materials, preparation methods, measured properties and proposed uses. Quarry dust and marble sludge were used mainly as fine aggregates or cement replacement materials in the production of concrete. Other uses included the production of building elements like load-bearing or decorative bricks and artificial stones. The on-going research must be intensified in terms of processing methods and studied properties and broadened to cover more construction applications.