Mechanical and Permeability Properties of No-Fines Concrete Utilizing Local Gravel from Kali Merah, Kolaka for Pavement Applications

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the performance of no-fines concrete using local aggregate (gravel) from Kali Merah, Wundulako District, Kolaka Regency, as an alternative material for yard pavement. No-fines concrete is a lightweight and porous concrete that excludes fine aggregates and has the ability to drain water. The study utilized three aggregate sizes (0.5–1 cm, 0.5–2 cm, and 1–2 cm) and three cement-aggregate mix ratios (1:3.5, 1:4.5, and 1:5.5) with a fixed water-cement ratio of 0.4. A total of 27 cylindrical specimens (15 cm diameter and 30 cm height) were tested at 28 days for compressive strength and permeability. Results showed that the mix with a 1:3.5 ratio and 0.5–2 cm aggregate produced the highest compressive strength at 3.774 MPa, while the 1:5.5 mix with 1–2 cm aggregate yielded the highest permeability value of 0.164 cm/s. However, none of the mixes met the minimum compressive strength requirement of 8.5 MPa for pavement application, indicating the need for further optimization.