A study on the enhancement of concrete properties using eco friendly materials as partial replacement

Abstract

newline Concrete is an essential material in the construction industry. It is a composite material that encompasses cement, fine aggregates, coarse aggregates and water. The aggregates are bonded together by cement paste that hardens over time, thus providing greater stability to the structure. Fine aggregates in concrete fill up the voids, thus improving the workability of concrete. Coarse aggregates in concrete play an essential role in abrasion resistance, impact resistance, hardness, toughness, elastic modulus, etc., thereby improving the properties of concrete. Cement production is becoming costly day by day. Cement production emits a large amount of CO2, thus causing greater environmental hazards. Alternative materials such as fly ash and micro silica, which are industrial wastes, can be used in concrete to overcome this issue. The resources for natural sand are being depleted progressively. Hence, a replacement for river sand becomes the need of the hour. Quarry dust, a by-product of stone crushing unit, can be used in place of river sand. However, the use of quarry dust in concrete adversely affects the workability of concrete due to its higher water absorbing capacity. Hence superplasticizers are added that are capable of compensating for the water loss in concrete. Addition of fibres aid in maintaining the structural integrity of concrete . Sisal, a natural fibre, is cost-effective in making concrete. When added to concrete, Sisal fibres enhance the strength and durability of concrete.