Aissa Benykhlef

Dr. Aissa Benykhlef


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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16 December 2025 in Buildings
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
Aissa BenykhlefAissa Benykhlef
Aissa Benykhlef
NSNadhir Toubal Seghir
Nadhir Toubal Seghir
LSLyacia Sadoudi
Lyacia Sadoudi
YAYassine Abbas
Yassine Abbas
MBMourad Boutlikht
Mourad Boutlikht
Yunchao TangYunchao Tang
Yunchao Tang
This paper examined the effect of marble powder (MP) on air-cured cement-based materials when subjected to sulfuric acid (H2SO4) attack. Four MP replacement levels were tested: 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% by weight of cement. The prepared samples were cured for 90 days prior to being exposed to H2SO4. Macroscopic tests for apparent density and compressive strength along with microstructural characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed to determine the effect of MP on the properties of the materials. The Rietveld method was used to analyze the amounts of different crystalline phases and amorphous calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H). The obtained results indicate that 5% MP in air-cured cement -based materials exhibited the best behavior with acceptable resistance to acid attacks. This level of MP replacement was found to optimize the filler effect, improve the hydration process, and enhance the matrix density, which in turn reduces the permeability of the material and increases acid resistance. This is attributed to the balanced contribution of MP to phase formation, particularly calcite, which helps to counteract acid-induced dissolution, while also preserving the stability of C-S-H phases. This study provides a new perspective of the role of MP in influencing phase content (crystalline and amorphous phases) and their possible impacts on macroscopic properties such as apparent density and compressive strength. MP behaved as a filler, to improve hydration and resistance to acid attacks. Additionally, using MP as a replacement for ordinary Portland cement (OPC) offers a sustainable alternative by reducing waste and promoting the recycling of marble industry by-products, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability. It is recommended that, 5% MP is the optimal replacement content to enhance durability and mechanical properties in air-cured cement-based materials in aggressive environments, as it is both practical and achievable for infrastructure to be subjected to the aggressive environment.