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Concrete Obtained with the Viterbo O'Reilly Method for Aggregate Gradation: A Potential Model for Sustainable Design
Edinson Murillo Mosquera1, Sergio Cifuentes2, Juan Carlos Obando1
1CCComposites Laboratory, Engineering School, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Calle 70 No. 52-21, Medellin 050010, Colombia.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 14, 2025
Summary
This study introduces the Viterbo O'Reilly Diaz method for concrete mix design, reducing cement use and CO2 emissions. The innovative approach enhances concrete sustainability and cost-effectiveness through optimized aggregate gradation.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Civil Engineering
- Sustainable Construction
Background:
- Traditional concrete production has a significant environmental impact due to high cement content.
- Optimizing aggregate gradation is crucial for improving concrete performance and sustainability.
- The Viterbo O'Reilly Diaz method offers a novel approach to concrete mix design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply the Viterbo O'Reilly Diaz method for quantifying concrete mixtures.
- To reduce cement content and associated CO2 footprint and production costs.
- To enhance the environmental and economical sustainability of concrete materials.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Viterbo O'Reilly Diaz method for aggregate gradation.
- Incorporated structural and general use Portland cements with fine sand and 3/4" gravel.
- Conducted granulometry, compressive strength (28 days), and microstructure analysis (SEM-EDS).
Main Results:
- Determined optimal proportions of water, cement, and aggregates.
- Identified effective combinations of fine and coarse aggregates.
- Demonstrated the Viterbo O'Reilly method's potential for enhancing concrete properties.
Conclusions:
- The Viterbo O'Reilly Diaz method provides an innovative, data-driven approach to concrete mix design.
- This method enhances concrete strength, durability, and workability while promoting sustainability.
- The study highlights an unexplored method for optimizing concrete mixes compared to traditional techniques.
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