Effects of Bentonite on physical properties of concrete

Introduction:
At present lot of construction is taking place in Pakistan and all over world. Demand of
construction materials is such scenario is liable to be enormous. Cement is the most essential
ingredient of the construction industry and directly affects the overall cost of project. Therefore
economy in the prevailing environment will remain a key feature in all engineering activities. To
cater for the said problem there is considerable need to explore low cost natural pozzolans
available in Pakistan. Bentonite is one of the pozzolans available in Pakistan. This project is
aimed at evaluating the feasibility of bentonite as partial replacement of cement.

Objectives:
1. To investigate the effect of bentonite on physical properties of concrete.
2. To investigate the effect of bentonite on permeability of concrete

Methodology:
Research will be carried out in three steps:

1. In first step samples will be prepared, these include one control mix which will be
prepared without addition of bentonite and the remaining four mixes will be prepared
with different proportions of bentonite as replacement of cement in concrete. Concrete
mix includes 3 %, 6%, 9%, 12% of bentonite in replacement mode by weight of cement.
The mix will design for compressive strength of 20 MPa.
2. In second step effect of addition of bentonite on physical properties of concrete will be
investigated through lab testing.
3. In third step effect of addition of bentonite on permeability of concrete will be
investigated by performing lab tests.

Expected Outcome:
Research will quantify the effect of bentonite on the physical properties and permeability of
concrete.