Optimizing concrete performance: An investigation into the impact of supplementary cementitious materials and sand particle sizes

•Silica fume, Marble dust, and Glass powder were incorporated as cement replacements inconcrete.•Fine aggregate of natural sand was customized into four different particle sizes.•The concrete compressive strength and durability properties were reported.•The use of 15% silica fume significantly enhances concrete compression strength.•SCM with natural particle distribution sand of finer sand presents optimum performance. The significance of employing suitable grades of aggregates and binders combined with waste materials in optimizing the performance of concrete cannot be overstated. It is evidenced from research that supplementary cementitious materials (SCM) sourced from construction waste can enhance the properties of cured concrete with less environmental impact and substantial economic savings. This study investigates the effect of SCM modified with customized sand particle sizes as fine aggregates on concrete’s compressive strength and durability properties. The SCMs comprised silica fume (SF), glass powder (GP), and marble dust (MD) in different percentages (0%, 15%, and 20%). The results indicated higher compressive strength at 28-d could be obtained by adding SCM and finer sand particle size distribution than natural sand grain sizes. The study suggests an effective approach for the recyclability of locally available industrial by-products as ingredient modifiers, which possess great potential for cement production for improved performance and to benefit localities with the predominance of finer sand and soil varieties for usage as a substitute to the traditional grain size of fine aggregates.