Strength characteristics of M25 concrete blocks using pozzolanic materials

Abstract

Fly ash and silica fume due to their pozzolanic characteristics are very good admixtures for the development of new concrete blocks, which find application in a variety of construction works such as highways, bridges, housing and industrial infrastructures. Recently, this field is gaining top priority as these admixtures materials are easily obtained as waste from coal thermal power stations and silicon metal and alloys industries. Moreover, the utilization of these in construction industry provides a practical solution to the problem of disposal of waste and has additional environmental benefits worldwide. This prompts researchers to develop blocks using alternate source in the context of sustainable building materials. Concrete blocks were made by partial replacement of cement with fly ash and silica fume for concrete of grade M25. Experimental analysis was done to optimize the percentage of fly ash to be used in the development concrete blocks, then by varying the percentage of silica fume from 5 to 20% the effect of silica fume was investigated. The compressive strength of concrete mix after curing for 7 days, 14 days and 28 days was examined experimentally.