Production of new concrete with leather tannery waste used as partial replacement of the natural sand

Leather production is a technology that boosts the economy because of its versatility and durability. However, the wastes generated throughout the process are categorized as toxic due to the high chrome concentration. In this work, the effects caused by the incorporation of leather shavings (wet blue) on the mechanical and physical properties of the concrete composite and the possibility of neutralizing the chrome's toxicity are evaluated. Namely, the leather shavings partially replace natural aggregates. In order to characterize the mechanical, physical, and morphological properties of the concretes, 7, 14, and 28 days-aged samples were evaluated. A leaching test is also performed to determine the efficiency of chromium encapsulation in the cement matrix. The experiments present that the workability of concrete decreases as the leather shavings content increases. We add a superplasticizer additive was to make the concrete workable, but a decrement in the mechanical properties similar to the samples without additive, is noted. With respect to the physical properties, the reduction of water permeability indicates a more durable material. Experimental findings highlight the ability to use the concrete with leather shavings as an alternative construction material.