Experimental investigation on characteristic properties of light weight concrete

Abstract

Light weight concrete is a relatively new concept. This concrete can be used for heat insulation on roofs, construction of panel walls and partition walls in framed structures ,casting structural steel to protect it against fire and corrosion , as covering for architectural purposes , surface rendered for external walls of small houses etc. Aggregates provide volume at low cost , comprising of 66 to 78 percentage of entire concrete. With increasing concern for the over exploitation of the natural aggregates hence the environment, the waste materials obtained from different industries and agricultural activities also household activities which are identified to be potential aggregates are a new source of obtaining building materials for construction industry. This experimental investigation was carried out to determine whether coconut shells can be used as aggregates in concrete . Utilising coconut shells as aggregate in concrete not only solves the problem of solid waste management and disposal but also helps in reducing the tremendous pressure on the environment due to ever increasing demand of aggregates. This study shows a comparison between conventional concrete properties and the concrete prepared by using coconut shells as light weight aggregates. Tests results which were compared are slump cone test, compressive strength test and split tensile test. Test age for concrete elements was kept 7days, 21 days and 28 days respectively.