EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF BEAM BY USING

PROSOPIS JULIFLORA ASH

PHASE I REPORT

Submitted by

DENIHA D

in partial fulfillment for the award of the degree of

MASTER OF ENGINEERING IN
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING

PONJESLY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, NAGERCOIL

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

ANNA UNIVERSITY, CHENNAI

DECEMBER 2020
 ii

ANNA UNIVERSITY, CHENNAI

BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE
Certified that this report titled “EXPERIMENTAL
INVESTIGATION OF BEAM BY USING PROSOPIS JULIFLORA
ASH” is the bonafide work of DENIHA D (961819413005) who carried out
the work under my supervision. Certified further that to the best of my
knowledge the work reported here in does not form part of any other thesis or
dissertation on the basis of which a degree or award was conferred on an
earlier occasion on this or any other candidate.

Signature Signature
Dr.JUSTIN MOSES SELVAMONY Ph.D, Dr.JUSTIN MOSES SELVAMONY Ph.D.,

Professor and Supervisor

Head of the Department Professor and Head of the Department

Department of Civil Engineering Department of Civil Engineering

Ponjesly College Of Engineering Ponjesly College Of Engineering

Nagercoil - 3 Nagercoil - 3

Submitted to Project and Viva Examination held on ………………….

Internal Examiner External Examiner

 iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First and foremost, I thank the Almighty God with immense pleasure

for his blessings and for enabling me to complete this project in time.

I pay my sincere respect to Shri. Pon Robert Singh, M.A., chairman,

Ponjesly College of Engineering for his support towards me.

I express my sincere thanks to Dr.S.Kaliappan, Ph.D., Advisor,

Ponjesly College of Engineering for his valuable advice towards me.

I convey my thanks to my director Prof. S. Arulson Daniel, M.sc,

M.Phil., for giving guidance and for the successful completion of my project.

I express my gratitude to Dr.G.Natarajan,M.E.,Ph.D., Principle,

Ponjesly College of Engineering for granting me permission and for providing

a good working environment to complete this project work.

I express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Justin Moses Selvamony, Ph.D.,

Head of the Department of Civil Engineering, Ponjesly College of

Engineering, for his support and kind guidance that enabled me to finish this

project successfully.

I am sincerely grateful and deeply indebted to my Project Guide Dr.

Justin Moses Selvamony, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, for her excellent

guidance and whole hearted involvement during my project work.

DENIHA D
 iv

ABSTRACT
In recent years, the main importance is on green and sustainable
development throughout the world. Cement industries are releasing the
numerous gases, which is one of the main reasons in environmental pollution.
Also, Prosopis Juliflora plant now becomes a threat to the environmental
system. Since it grows up to 50 ft deep and also it absorbs more ground water.
So, using Prosopis Juliflora Ash (PJA) as partial replacement for cement is a
dual purpose as meeting the demands of construction industry and at the same
time providing a sustainable development. Generally, PJA does not have
cementitious property by itself which is responsible for strength generation.
But in presence of water it reacts with free lime obtained from cement
and form hydrated products such as C2S and C3S which helps in attaining
the strength and also improving the durability. In this project we are verifying
the above thoughts, by using PJA as replacement to cement at 25 to 40% with
every increment of 5%. Here, I have to find out the mechanical properties
(Compressive, Split tensile) and durability properties (Acid attack and
Alkaline attack) of concrete at different curing periods and were compared
with control mix of M20 grade concrete.
 v

சுருக்கம்

சமீபத்திய ஆண்டுகளில் , முக் கிய முக் கியத்துவம்

உலகம் முழுவதும் பசுமம மற் றும் நிமலயான வளர்ச்சி.

சிமமன்ட் மதாழில் கள் ஏராளமான வாயுக்கமள

மவளியிடுகின்றன, இது சுற் றுச்சூழல் மாசுபாட்டிற் கு

முக் கிய காரணங் களில் ஒன்றாகும் . மமலும் , புமராமசாபிஸ்

ஜூலிஃப் மளாரா ஆமல இப் மபாது சுற் றுச்சூழல்

அமமப் புக்கு அச்சுறுத்தலாக மாறும் . இது 50 அடி ஆழம்

வமர வளரும் என்பதால் மமலும் நிலத்தடி நீ மர

உறிஞ் சிவிடும் . எனமவ, சிமமன்ட்டுக் கு ஓரளவு மாற் றாக

புமராமசாபிஸ் ஜூலிஃப் மளாரா ஆஷ் (பி.மஜ.ஏ)

பயன்படுத்துவது கட்டுமானத் துமறயின்

மகாரிக்மககமள பூர்த்தி மசய் வமதாடு அமத மநரத்தில்

நிமலயான வளர்ச்சிமய அளிப் பதும் இரட்மட

மநாக்கமாகும் . மபாதுவாக, பி.மஜ.ஏவிடம் சிமமன்டிஸ்

மசாத்து இல் மல, இது வலிமம உற் பத்திக் கு

மபாறுப் பாகும் . ஆனால் நீ ரின் முன்னிமலயில் இது

சிமமண்டிலிருந் து மபறப் பட்ட இலவச சுண்ணாம் புடன்

விமனபுரிந் து சி 2 எஸ் மற் றும் சி 3 எஸ் மபான்ற

நீ மரற் றப் பட்ட தயாரிப் புகமள உருவாக்குகிறது, இது

வலிமமமய அமடயவும் ஆயுள் மமம் படுத்தவும்

உதவுகிறது. இந் த திட்டத்தில் , மமமல உள் ள எண்ணங் கமள

 vi

நாங் கள் சரிபார்க் கிமறாம் , பி.மஜ.ஏமவ சிமமண்டிற் கு

மாற் றாக 25 முதல் 40% வமர 5% ஒவ் மவாரு அதிகரிப் புடன்

பயன்படுத்துகிமறாம் . இங் மக, மவவ் மவறு குணப் படுத்தும்

காலங் களில் கான்கிரீட்டின் இயந் திர பண்புகள் (அமுக் க,

பிளவு இழுவிமச) மற் றும் ஆயுள் பண்புகள் (ஆசிட்

தாக் குதல் மற் றும் காரத் தாக் குதல் ) ஆகியவற் மறக்

கண்டுபிடிக்க மவண்டும் , மமலும் அமவ எம் 20 தர

கான்கிரீட்டின் கட்டுப் பாட்டு கலமவயுடன் ஒப் பிடப் பட்டன.

 vii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER TITLE PAGE

ABSTRACT iv
LIST OF TABLES x
LIST OF FIGURES xi
LIST OF SYMBOLS AND ABBREVATIONS xii
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 GENERAL 1
1.2.1 Properties of concrete 1
1.2.2 Materials used in concrete 2
1.2.2.1 Ordinary Portland Cement 2
1.2.2.2 Aggregate 2
1.2.2.3 Water 3

2 LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 General 6
2.2 Literature Review 6
3 METHODOLOGY
3.1 General 16
3.2 Collection of Materials 17
3.2.1 Cement 17
3.2.2 Fine Aggregate 18
3.2.3 Coarse Aggregate 18
3.2.4 Water 19
3.2.5 Prosopis Juliflora Ash 20
3.3 Testing of materials 22
3.3.1 Cement 22
3.3.1.1 Specific gravity of cement 22
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3.3.1.2 Setting time test 24

3.3.1.3 Fineness test on cement 26
3.3.2 Coarse aggregate 27
3.3.2.1 Sieve analysis of coarse aggregate 27
3.3.2.2 Specific gravity of coarse aggregate 30
3.3.2.3 Aggregate impact test 32
3.3.2.4 Water absorption 35
3.3.3 Fine Aggregate
3.3.3.1 Specific gravity of fine aggregate 37
3.3.3.2 Water absorption 39
3.3.3.3 Sieve analysis test 41
3.3.4 Prosopis Julilora Ash 44
3.3.4.1 Fineness test 44
3.3.4.2 Specific gravity test 45
3.4 Concrete mix design 46
3.4.1 Introduction 46
3.4.2 Mix design 46
3.4.2.1 Mix design for M20 grade 46
3.4.2.2 Target set for mix proportioning 48
3.4.2.3 Mix calculation 49
3.4.2.4 Quantity calculation 50
4 EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION 52
4.1 Preparation of specimen 52
4.1.1 Mixing, Casting and Curing of specimen 52
4.1.2 Batching 52
4.1.3 Mixing 52
4.1.4 Placing 53
4.1.5 Finishing 53
4.1.6 Curing 53
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4.2 Test of fresh concrete 53

4.2.1 Slump cone test 54
4.2.2 Compaction factor test 55
4.2.3 Vee bee consistometer test 56
4.2.4 Flow table test 57
4.3 Test on hardened concrete 57
4.3.1 Compression strength test 57
4.3.2 Split tensile strength test 59
4.3.3 Flexural strength test 60
5 CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK 62
REFERENCES 63
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LIST OF TABLES
TABLE NO. TITLE PAGE NO.
3.1 Composition of cement 18
3.2 Setting time for cement 26
3.3 Fineness test of cement 27
3.4 Sieve analysis of coarse aggregate 30
3.5 Sieve analysis of fine aggregate 42
3.6 Fineness test of Prosopis Juliflora Ash 44
3.7 Specific gravity of Prosopis Juliflora Ash 45
3.8 Mix Proportion 50
4.1 Slump cone test 54
4.2 Compaction factor test 56
4.3 Vee bee consistometer 56
4.4 Compression strength test results 58
4.5 Tensile strength test result 60
4.6 Flexural strength test result 61
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LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE TITLE PAGE NO.
NO.
3.1 Flow chart for methodology 16
3.2 Ordinary Portland Cement 18
3.3 M- Sand 18
3.4 Coarse Aggregate 19
3.5 Water 19
3.6 Prosopis Juliflora Ash 21
3.7 Pycnometer 23
3.8 Vicat Apparatus 25
3.9 Sieve test apparatus for CA 29
3.10 Sieve analysis graph for CA 30
3.11 Pycnometer 31
3.12 Impact test machine 34
3.13 Pycnometer 38
3.14 Sieve test apparatus for FA 42
3.15 Sieve analysis graph for FA 43
4.1 Slump cone test 55
4.2 Compressive strength test 58
4.3 Split tensile strength test 59
4.4 Flexural strength testing of prism 60
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LIST OF SYMBOLS AND ABBREVATIONS

ACI American Concrete Institute

ASTM American Society For Testing And Materials
CTM Compression Testing Machine
FTIR Fourier Transform Infrared (Spectroscopy)
ml Milliliter
mm Millimeter
SEM Scanning Electron Microscopy
SCC Self Consolidation Concrete
XRD X Ray Diffraction
 1

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 GENERAL
In today’s world the main emphasis is on green and sustainable
development. Cement industry is one of the major contributors to pollution by
releasing carbon dioxide. So by partially replacing cement with pozzolanic
material such as prosopis juliflora ash, the cement industry can serve both the
purpose of meeting the demands of construction industry and at the same time
providing a green and clean environment Prosopis juliflora ash is difficult to
decompose. So using this is a major step towards sustainable development. Also
the concrete is weak in tension, so with the addition of steel fibers it’s flexural
and tensile strength is also enhanced. Prosopis juliflora ash does not have
cementitious property by itself which is responsible for strength generation. But
in presence of water it reacts with free lime obtained from cement and form
hydrated products (C2S and C3S) which helps in attaining the strength and also
improving the durability. As the prosopis juliflora ash is very fine in structure, it
fills the voids and provides superior pore structure and there by improves its
strength at later stages due to reduced permeability.

1.2 CONCRETE
Concrete usually Portland cement concrete, is a composite material
composed of fine and coarse aggregate bonded together with fluid cement that
hardens over time most frequently a lime based cement binder such as Portland
cement, but sometimes with other hydraulic cements, such as calcium
aluminates cement. It is an important construction material used extensively in
buildings, bridges, road and dams. Its uses range from structural applications,
 2

and drains. Concrete is a composite material, consisting mainly of Portland

cement, water and aggregate. A concrete mixture ratio of 1 part cement, 3 parts
sand and 3 parts aggregate will produce a concrete mix of approximately 3000
psi. Mixing water with the cement, sand and stone will form a paste that will
bind the materials together until the mix hardens.

1.2.1 Properties of concrete

 Grades (M20, M25, M30, etc)

 Compressive strength
 Characteristic strength
 Tensile strength
 Durability
 Creep
 Shrinkage
 Unit weight
 Modular ratio
 Poisson’s ratio

1.2.2 Materials used in concrete

 Ordinary Portland cement (OPC)

 Aggregate (Fine and Coarse aggregate)
 Water
1.2.3 Ordinary Portland Cement
OPC typically means Ordinary Portland Cement. Cement can be defined as
the bonding material having cohesive & adhesive properties which makes it
capable to unite the different construction materials and form the compacted
assembly.
 3

Ordinary/Normal Portland cement is one of the most widely used types of

Portland cement. The name Portland cement was given by Joseph Aspdin in
1824 due to its similarity in colour and its quality when it hardens like Portland
stone. Portland stone is white grey limestone in island of Portland;
Dorset.Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) is manufactured by grinding a mixture
of limestone and other raw materials like argillaceous, calcareous, gypsum to a
powder. This cement is available in three types of grades, such as OPC 33 grade,
OPC 43 grade and OPC 53 grade. OPC is the most commonly used cement in
the world. This type of cement is preferred where fast pace of construction is
done. However, the making of OPC has reduced to a great extent as blended
cement like PPC has advantages, such as lower environmental pollution, energy
consumption and more economical. OPC is the most commonly used cement
worldwide. The cost of production is not expensive making it the sought after
cement in the building industry. They are widely used for the construction of
high-rise buildings, roads, dams, bridges, flyovers. Also, OPC is used for
making grouts and mortars. OPC is ideal for the construction of residential and
industrial complexes. When ordinary Portland cement is mixed with water its
chemical compound constituents undergo a series of chemical reactions that
cause it to set. These chemical reactions all involve the addition of water to the
basic chemical compounds. This chemical reaction with water is called
"hydration". Each one of these reactions occurs at a different time and with
different rates. Addition of all these reactions gives the knowledge about how
Ordinary Portland cement hardens and gains strength.
1.2.4 Aggregate
Aggregates are inert granular materials such as sand, gravel, or crushed
stone that, along with water and Portland cement, are an essential ingredient
 4

in concrete. For a good concrete mix, aggregates need to be clean, hard, strong
particles free of absorbed chemicals or coatings of clay and other fine
materials that could cause the deterioration of concrete. Aggregates, which
account for 60 to 75 percent of the total volume of concrete, are divided into two
distinct categories-fine and coarse. Fine aggregates generally consist of natural
sand or crushed stone with most particles passing through a 3/8-inch sieve.
Coarse aggregates are any particles greater than 0.19 inch, but generally range
between 3/8 and 1.5 inches in diameter. Gravels constitute the majority of coarse
aggregate used in concrete with crushed stone making up most of the remainder.
Natural gravel and sand are usually dug or dredged from a pit, river, lake, or
seabed. Crushed aggregate is produced by crushing quarry rock, boulders,
cobbles, or large-size gravel. Recycled concrete is a viable source of aggregate
and has been satisfactorily used in granular sub bases, soil-cement, and in new
concrete. After harvesting, aggregate is processed: crushed, screened, and
washed to obtain proper cleanliness and gradation. If necessary, a benefaction
process such as jigging or heavy media separation can be used to upgrade the
quality. Once processed, the aggregates are handled and stored to minimize
segregation and degradation and prevent contamination. Aggregates strongly
influence concrete's freshly mixed and hardened properties, mixture proportions,
and economy. Consequently, selection of aggregates is an important process.
Although some variation in aggregate properties is expected, characteristics that
are considered include:

 Grading
 Durability
 Particle shape and surface texture
 Abrasion and skid resistance
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 Unit weights and voids

 Absorption and surface moisture

1.2.5 Water
Water is one of the most important elements in construction but people still
ignore quality aspect of this element. The water is required for preparation of
mortar, mixing of cement concrete and for curing work etc during construction
work. The quality and quantity of water has much effect on the strength of
mortar and cement concrete in construction work. Water is an important
component for mortar or concrete. The quantity and quality of water have much
effect on the strength of mortar and cement concrete. It has been observed many
times that in spite of using best raw materials, cement and tested water; concrete
does not provide required results. Engineers/contractors think that there is
something wrong in cement, but they do not consider water cement ratio or
quantity of water added in the mix. When the water is mixed in mortar, it reacts
with cement and forms a binding paste which fills small voids in the sand. This
creates a close cohesion of sand particles and cement. In case of cement concrete
the voids formed between sand and coarse aggregate gets filled with the paste
forming a cohesive substance/concrete. The required quantity of water is used to
prepare mortar or concrete, but in practice it is seen that more water is mixed to
make the mix workable. This is a bad practice and additional water weakens the
strength of cement paste. Extra water also weakens adhesive quality.

1.3 OBJECTIVE

According to study by researchers in world, much research work is

focusing on green and sustainable development throughout the world. By using
PJA as partial replacement for cement, we can achieve dual purpose i.e. as
meeting the demands of construction industry and providing a sustainable
development.
 6

 To study the mechanical properties of M20 Grade concrete.

 Also, to study the durability properties of M20 Grade concrete.
 To minimize environmental and ecological problems.
 To reduce the cost of construction.
 7

CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 GENERAL
An exhaustive literature was conducted to assess the present status of the
work carried out related to Prosopis Juliflora Ash as replacement (i.e., from 0 to
40%) for cement in concrete. Some of the researches carried out by the past
researchers are given below:
2.1 LITERATURE REVIEW
A.Durai Murugan et al., (2017) has found that in today’s world the main
emphasis is on green and sustainable development. Cement industry is one of
the major contributors to pollution by releasing carbon dioxide. So, the cement
is partially replaced by pozzolonic material such as Prosopis Juliflora ash.

PJA does not have cementitious property by itself which is

responsible for strength generation. But in the presence of water it reacts with
free lime obtained from cement and form hydrated products ( C2S and C3S). In
here ordinary Portland cement (OPC) 53 grade is used. The fine aggregate which
passed through 4.5mm IS sieve and retained on 75 micron IS sieve.

The coarse aggregate is of angular shape which passes through 20mm

sieve and retain on 10mm. 12.5mm PJA from the biomass power plant unit in
the state of Tamilnadu, India was selected to evaluate its suitability as ash for
OPC replacement. To determine the hardened properties of concrete standard
tests like compression on cubes for compressive strength, split tensile test on
cylinders for tensile strength and flexural strength of concrete were carried out at
7 days and 28 days of using. The concrete mix properties are determined by
 8

trial and error methods. The Prosopis Juliflora ash are replaced in cement at
20%, 30%,40%. The concrete test are conducted and to find out the workability.
The compressive strength values show that at 30% replacement it is higher than
the conventional mix. The split tensile strength values show that at 30%
replacement it shows higher value than the conventional mix. The flexural
strength values show that at 30% replacement it was higher than the
conventional concrete mix.The optimum replacement is therefore found as 30%.

M.Kamesh et al., (2017) has described that in order to save the environment
and to save the resources we have come up using the Prosopis Juliflora ash as a
partial replacement of cement.
Cement will produce equal amount of green house gas (CO 2) which
increases the global warming. Utilization of Juliflora ash as a partial substitution
for cement is one of the promising method to increase the strength and thermal
insulation for cement blocks.
The strength parameters (compressive strength, split tensile strength
and flexural strength) of concrete with blended Prosopis Juliflora cement are
evaluated.
Here in this work, Portland pozzolana cement of ultratech has been
used. The fine aggregate used are locally available sand without any organic
impurities. The coarse aggregate chosen for SCC was typically round in shape,
well graded and smaller in maximum size than conventional concrete.
Water used for mixing and curing was potable water, which is free
from oils, acids, alkalis, sugar, salts and organic materials or other substances
that may be deleterious to concrete or steel. Four different proportions of
concrete mix (5%, 10%, 15% and 20% by the weight of cement) including the
control mix were prepared with water to binder ratio of 0.5. To find out the
compression strength cubes were casted with replacement of cement by 0%,
 9

5%,10%,15% and 20%. The result is when ash replacement is 15%; the
compressive strength value is greater than M20 mix. For split tensile strength,
the cylinder with 0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% were casted. The split tensile
strength satisfies for 20% with the mix design. For flexural strength beams were
casted and 5%, 10% and 15% satisfies the design mix. Hence we conclude that
5% and 10% was considered as economic.

Mansoor Elahi et al., (2015) has found that the production of cement involves
an intensive use of raw materials and energy, while at the same time, releases
high quantity of CO2 into atmosphere. To reduce the emission of CO2 we can
replace the cement partially by using wood ash (WA) in concrete. Wood ash is
collected from textile industry and paper industry etc. The WA was sieved
through ASTM sieve then the concrete was made by using this wood ash. The
mix proportion of concrete is 1:2:4 and the water cement ratio is 0.6. Then the
workability of cement is tested using slump cone. The cylinders having diameter
150mmØ height 300mm were cast. Totally 9 cylinders were cast with normal
concrete. While 9 cylinders each from concrete mix with 10%, 15% and 20%
cement replacement were cast and were tested for compressive at the age of 7,
28 and 56 days.

In chemical composition of wood ash, it have silica content

approximately 5 times higher than OPC and WA samples contain CaO lesser
than OPC which indicates that it has good binding propreties. The X-ray
Diffraction Analysis (XRD) of the boiler WA samples depicts small humps or
broad peaks in their graphical representation at an angle of 22 o2’θ. ASTM is
used to determine the consistency of cement paste. The standard consistency test
results are summarized. The DOce WA is lighter in weight and number of
particles in 50g is more than cement. The specific gravity of the WA samples is
determined and it was noticed the specific gravity DOce is 2.41.
 10

Raghu K.Sharath et al., (2017) the main aim is to increasing cement

producing industries produces large extend of CO 2 to nature due to industries the
large extend of industrial byproducts are being accumulated to environmental
and economic concerns related to their disposal.
Mesquite wood ash is a byproduct generated by the combustion of
wood in wood fired power plants, hotels, paper mills and other wood burning
industries. Here mesquite wood ash partially replaced to cement in concrete of
various levels of 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%.
The mechanical properties and durability properties were determined.
The most common cement used is an ordinary Portland cement of grade 43.
Mesquite wood ash behaves like cement because of silica and magnesium
properties. The M-sand passing through 4.75mm sieves and retained on 600µm
sieve. Throughout the investigations, a crushed coarse aggregate of 20mm
procured from local crushing plant was used. Water realistic in the ground
agreeable to the necessities of water for cementing and curing. The concrete mix
of grade M30 is used. The concrete mix proportion is 1:1.87:3.1 by volume and
water cement ratio of 0.4.
The result showed as maximum compressive strength of about
40.29MPa was obtained for 28 days when 15% mesquite wood ash is used; the
strength development can be expected with pass of ages as the pozzolonic
material has been used in production of concrete. Split tensile strength and
flexural strength increases slightly up to 15% replacement of MWA than M30
mix.
Concrete mixes contain 15% replaced MWA showed lower values of
acid effect and water absorption. Hence we conclude that here 15% replacement
is considered as optimum.
 11

Amrutha Sebastian et al., (2016) has described that in the recent growing
years, growing consciousness about global environment and increasing energy
security has led to increasing demand for renewable energy sources and to
diversify current methods of energy production.

The use of wood ash formed as a residue produced from the

incineration of wood in cement concrete mix will make it cost effective and
environmental friendly disposal of the product. The characteristic of wood ash
depends upon wood species, combustion technology used as a location for the
collection of wood ash.

This paper deals with determination of compressive strength, split

tensile strength, workability having water cement ratio 0.45 for replacement
percentages of 3%, 5% and 8%. In this approach, portlant pozzolono cement,
fine aggregate, coarse aggregate, wood ash, water of standard limits was used.
The specific gravity of ash is conforming to BS 5628-1:2005 sample cubes were
casted as per procedure. The compressive strength test values at 7 and 28 days
were compared with the conventional concrete mix of M25.

It s found that workability decreases with increase in percentage of

wood ash, as the water absorption is greater than that of cement. Split tensile
strength is maximum with 3% replacement.

From this, we conclude that the amorphous silica of wood ash is

responsible for its cementitious property. The presence of finer particles makes
it pozzolonic and these pozzolonic reactions will increase the strength with age.
It also serves as good thermal insulation.

Prabagar Subramaniam et al., (2015) has found the construction using

concrete blocks have been used in many developing countries including Sri
Lanka over a long period of time. In order to meet the increasing demand for the
raw material, alternative materials are in need. Utilization
 12

of wood ash as a partial substitution for cement is one of the promising method
to increase the strength and thermal insulation for cement blocks. Wood ash from
five different sources was used for tests.

The values of unit weight ranges from 162 kg/m3 to maximum of 1376
kg/m3. Wood ash was collected from Tasma International Multiservice (Pvt) Ltd,
Sri Lanka.

Wood ash of size less than 75µm is used and 5 set of replacements at
5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25% are carried out. Compressive strength was
investigated using crushing machine. Three samples were tested at the age of 7,
14 and 21 days. Water absorption of concrete blocks was carried out by
immersing it in water for 24 hours.
Thermal Imaging Scanner is used to determine the heat holding test.
The wood ash posses Mg, Ca, S, K, Ph and N. the increase of sulfur temperature
from 7 days of curing time to 14 days indicates reduction of heat release with the
curing time. The presence of potassium, magnesium and calcium in wood ash
increases the Ph values of hydrated cement mixture and enhance the pozzolanic
activity. Increase in Ph leads to the formation of hydrous silica.
Hydrous silica reacts with Ca2+ ions and produce insoluble
compounds which are responsible for cemenetitious property. The heat release
will be slower. 15% replacement showed better results on strength, heat release,
etc. The blocks made with 15% replacement meets the standard limit.

S.Chowdhary et al., (2014) has described that in the growing years, the demand
for renewable energy resources is increasing. To use an alternative method is a
necessary requirement and it can be obtained by using wood ash as partial
replacement for cement. This paper uses saw dust as a replacement. The main
aim of this project is to reduce the volume of waste by 70% ash disposal by land
filling and it requires proper method. It is done with goal of controlling
respiratory problems and as well as ground water contamination.
 13

OPC is used with 10 mm gravel and fine aggregate of size 4.75mm and specific
gravity (2.6). The wood ash was obtained from open field burning with average
temperature being 700oC.

Proper mixing is done to facilitate easy pozzolonic reaction. For the

study, six different proportions of concrete mixes with wood replacement of 5%,
10%, 15%, 18% and 20% by weight of cement is used. Two different water
cement ratios of 0.4 and 0.45 are used. Cubes of size 10×10×10cm and cylinders
of diameter 5 cm and height 20cm is used for testing. Flexural strength test was
carried out on beam of size 10×10×50cm.

Tests are carried on 7 days and 28 days curing. Compressive strength

test is done using two point loading system. The mineralogical properties are
carried out by RHA X-ray diffraction test. The amorphous silica in wood ash is
responsible for pozzolonic action which increases the strength due to aging.

George Amal Anik et al., (2018) Since the building made of cement concrete
consumes almost half of the total energy generated and accordingly accountable
for huge amount of CO2 emission, it is necessary to replace PC with suitable
construction material.

Mesquite is considered as a potential threat for South India. In regard,

this paper investigates the technical feasibility of using PJA as cementitious
material by partially (10%, 20%, 30% and 40%) replacing cement by PJA. The
mixes were evaluated for their fresh, physical and strength properties such as
workability, density and compressive strength and results were compared with
conventional.It is found that workability decreases with increase in percentage
of wood ash, as the water absorption is greater than that of cement. Split tensile
strength is maximum with 3% replacement.
 14

The aggregates used are locally available graded river and was taken
as fine aggregates with a nominal maximum size of 4.75mm with a specific
gravity of 2.6 and crushed granite as coarse aggregate with a maximum size of
16 mm with a specific gravity of 2.64. The mortar samples were prepared
confirming to IS 10262:2009. Five different mixes of 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40%
were prepared. The mixes were placed in the cube mould with a three layer
compaction. The optimum water content required for standard consistency of
cement paste is 35% up to 20% of replacement of Prosopis Juliflora ash as
cement, the initial setting time of cement paste also increases. The expansion of
cement reduced with the increase in percentage of replacement of PJA as
cement. Up to 10% replacement by PJA, the compressive strength of cement
mortar beyond 10% the strength decreases with increase in replacement. For
30% and 40% of replacement, strength decreases by 18% and 29% respectively.

S.Barathan et al., (2013) is found the potential of wood ash as admixture to

cement in the construction industry is explored in this study. Wood ash are
limited to a grain size of less than 75µm is added to cement by weight
percentage of 10%, 20% and 30% by the method of replacement of weight. The
samples were hydrated at different time intervals ranging from 1hr to 4 weeks.
Those hydrated samples were subjected to FTIR, SEM and compressive strength
analysis. The hydration mechanism is analyzed with FTIR and SEM
micrographs and correlated with compressive strength measurements in the light
of available literature.

Typically 6-10% of the mass of burnt wood result in ash. The

percentage of CaO which is one of the important compounds in wood ash varies
from 4% to 70% in wood ash that makes it potential substitute for cement either
in the production or in application stage.The chemical the presence of CaO, SiO 2
and small amount Fe2O3, Al2O3 and K2O. OPC compared with 10%, 20% and
 15

30% WA admixture samples used for 1hr, 1 day, 1week and 4 weeks. As the one
day OPC sample needs like eltrigite is observed which a consequence of initial
hydration is. The wood ash exhibits an appreciable amount of pozzolonic
properties. The water requirement increases with the increase with WA addition.
The 20% WA sample shows higher degree of hydration and compressive
strength than OPC. The optimum replacement percentage of WA is therefore
20% for construction industry.

Etaveni Mudhav et al., (2016) The objective of this research work is to reduce
the cost of construction. Nowadays the industrial wasted are rapidly increasing
so the cement is replaced by wood ash. The limited grain size of wood ash is less
than 90µm is added to cement by weight percentage from 0% to 30% by the
increment by 5% by the method of replacement by weight. In this experiment 53
grade OPC is used, the specific gravity of cement is 3.02. The river sand is used
as fine aggregate. The specific gravity of fine aggregate is 2.6. The fraction from
2mm to 4.75mm is used as coarse aggregate. The specific gravity of coarse
aggregate is 2.7. The portable water is generally considered satisfactory in
mixing and curing of concrete. Wood waste ash is generated as a by-product of
combustion in wood fired power plants, paper mills and other wood burning
factories. The size of wood ash particle is 300µm, it contains K, Ph, N, Mg, C
and Si. The specific gravity of wood ash is 2.71. Kerosene called paraffine or
paraffin oil is flammable pale yellow or colorless oil liquid. Specific gravity
of wood ash is 2.7. In this investigation we use M30 grade mix design and
extra 10% materials were added. Three samples were tested for each set of
blocks and were tested at the age of 7, 14 and 21 days. The size is
(150×150×150) mm. The cubes are tested on 2000KN capacity universal testing
machine. In between 10%-20% wood ash sample shows higher degree of
hydration and compressive strength than conventional concrete.
 16

CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

3.1 GENERAL

Methodology involves studying the methods used in the project and the
theories or principles behind them, in order to develop an approach that matches
the objectives.

EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF BEAM BY USING

PROSOPIS JULIFLORA ASH

RVIEW OF LITRERATURE

COLLECTION AND TESTING OF MATERIALS

MIX DESIGN AND DESIGN OF BEAM

CASTING AND CURING OF SPECIMENS

TEST OF SPECIMENS

RESULT AND CONCLUSION

Fig. 3.1 Flow chart for methodology

 17

3.2 COLLECTION OF MATERIALS

The materials are locally available stone aggregate, m sand,
ordinary portland cement were used for normal concrete and also super
plasticizer were used. Material properties and characteristics are explained
below.

3.2.1 Cement

3.2.2Fine Aggregate
3.2.3Coarse Aggregate
3.2.4 Water
3.2.5 Prosopis Juliflora Ash

3.2.1 Cement

Cement is defined as chemical entty formed from predetermined ratios

of reactants at a fairly precise temperature. Cement is obtained from limestone
(calcium carbonate) and small quantities of other materials (such as clay)
through a heating process in kilns, the process is known as calcinations. The
resulting hard substances called “clinker”, is then ground with a small amount
of gypsum to form Ordinary Portland Cement also referred as OPC. This
forms a basic ingredient of concrete mortar, grout etc. and its most common
use in the production of concrete. Concrete is a composite materials which
consist of cement, aggregate (both coarse and fine) and water. It can be
effectively used for load bearing structure. The composite of cement is given
in table 3.1

Ingredients Percentage Range

Lime (Cao) 62 62 - 67
Silica (Sio2) 22 17 – 25
Alumina (Al2O3) 5 3–8
Calcium Sulphate(CaSo4) 4 3–4
Iron Oxide 3 3–4
 18

Magnesium (Mgo) 2 0.1 - 3

Table3.1 Composition of cement

Fig. 3.2 Ordinary Portland Cement

3.2.2 Fine Aggregate
M – Sand conforming to grading zone II of table 4 of IS 383 –
1970 has been used as fine aggregate. Aggregate which is passed through 4.75
IS sieve is termed as fine aggregate. Fine aggregate is added to concrete to
assist workability and to bring uniformity in mixture. Important thing to be
considered is that the fine aggregate should be free from coagulated lumps.

Fig. 3.3 M – Sand

3.2.3 Coarse Aggregate
The natural coarse aggregate obtained from the locally available
quantities is of size 20mm and 10mm,satisfying the grading requirements of
BIS (IS 383 – 1970) is used in both normal and recycled aggregate concrete.
The ideal aggregate should be clean, cubical and regular.
 19

Fig. 3.4 Coarse Aggregate

3.2.4 Water
Water fit for drinking is also good for making concrete. Potable
clean drinking water available in college is used for making of concrete and
curing of the test specimen. Water is required for hydration of cement and
molding of concrete to the desired shape. The relationship between
compressive strength and water cement ratio is well established. Smaller the
water cement, higher is the compressive strength.

Fig. 3.5 Water

3.2.5 Prosopis Juliflora
Prosopis juliflora is a type of tree which absorbs ground water and
atmospheric moisture heavily. Recently the Tamilnadu government started
removing the tree with the help of PWD. Hence the Juliflora has been mostly
used in industries, power plants, incineration, etc. hence the residue generation
 20

is more. The industrial byproducts (waste) are being accumulated to a large

extend leading to environmental and economic concerns related to their
disposal. Cement emits vast amount of greenhouse gases, forcing researchers
to look for an alternative such as sustainable building practice. Prosopis
Juliflora ash as a partial replacement of cement in concrete. The
characteristics of the ash depend upon biomass characteristics (herbaceous
material, wood or bank), combustion technology (fixed bed or fluidized bed)
and the location where ash is collected. As wood ash primarily consists of fine
particular matter which can easily get air borne by winds, it is a potential
hazard as it may cause respiratory health problems to the dwellers near the
dump site or can cause groundwater contamination by leaching toxic elements
in water. As the disposal cost of the ashes is rising and volume of ash is
increasing, a sustainable ash management which integrates the ash within the
natural cycles needs to be employed. Juliflora ash is also a similar waste
materials produced from Juliflora burning industries which is mainly used as a
fertilizer for soil. Significant quantities of Juliflora ash is currently land filled
near the industries that uses Juliflora as a fuel partially or fully which poses a
threat to the environment in many ways to life stock around. Chemical
analysis of Juliflora ash shows that it has pozzolanic property, and using it as
a partial replacement to cement may be done of the best application in the
current environment scenario. Prosopis Juliflora grows tremendously and
spreads due to its mechanism to overcome adverse conditions of like drought
and salt. This is facilitated by its high ‘proline’ content under stress
conditions, which helps the plant to thrive where other species die. Prosopis
Juliflora ash is difficult to decompose. So using this is a major step towards
sustainable development. Also the concrete is weak in tension, so with the
addition of steel fibers it’s flexural and tensile strength is also enhanced.
Prosopis Juliflora ash does not have cementitious property by itself which is
responsible for strength generation. But in presence of water it reacts with free
 21

lime obtained from cement and form hydrated products (C 2S and C3S) which
helps in attaining the strength and also improving the durability. As the
prosopis Juliflora ash is very fine in structure, it fills the voids and provides
superior pore structure and there by improves its strength at later stages due to
reduced permeability.

Fig. 3.6 Prosopis Juliflora

 22

3.3 TESTING OF MATERIALS

Initial test on ingredients
The initial tests are conducted on following ingredients
3.3.1 Cement

3.3.2 Coarse Aggregate

3.3.3 Fine Aggregate

3.3.1 Cement
3.3.1.1 Specific gravity of cement

3.3.1.2 Setting time test

3.3.1.3 Fineness test on cement

3.3.1.1 Specific gravity of cement
The following method was employed for determining the Specific Gravity of
Cement by pycnometer equipment. It needs equipments such as pycnometer
of about 1 litre capacity and weighing balance, with an accuracy of 1g.
Procedure
For conducting this experiment first of all clean and dry the pycnometer.
Tightly screw it scap. Take its mass(M1) to then earest of 0.1g. Mark the
capand pycnometer with a verticalline parallel to the axis of the pycnometer to
ensure that the capis screwed to the same mark each time. Unscrew the
capand place about 200g of cement in the pycnometer. Screw the cap.
Determine the mass(M2). Unscrew the cap and add sufficient amount of de-
aired water to the pycnometer so as to cover the cement. Screw on the cap.
Shake well the contents. Connect the pycnometer to a vacuum pump to
remove the entrapped air. Disconnect the vacuum pump. Fill the pycnometer
with water, about three- fourths full. Reapply the vacuum for about 5min till
air bubbles stop appearing on the surface of the water. Fill the pycnometer
with water completely up to the mark. Dry it from outside. Take its mass(M3).
Record the temperature of contents. Empty the pycnometer. Clean tit and wipe
 23

it dry. Fill the pycnometer with water only. Screw on the cap upto the mark.
Wipe it dry. Take its mass(M4).

Fig 3.7 Pycnometer

The pycnometer method can be used for determination of the specific gravity
of solid particles.

The specific gravity of solids is determined using the relation:

Specific gravity of cement,

(W2−W1) X Specific gravity of Kerosene
G =
W2−W1)−(W3−W4)

Where,

W1= Weight of empty pycnometer,

W2= Weight of the pycnometer with cement.

W3= Weight of the pycnometer and cement and water.
W4 = Weight of pycnometer filled with water only.
G = Specific gravity of cement.
Results
Take 200g of cement,

Empty weight of pycnometer, W1 = 616g

Weight of pycnometer + cement, W2 = 1084g
Weight of pycnometer + cement+ Kerosene, W3 = 1782g
 24

Weight of pycnometer +kerosene, W4 = 1482g

Specific gravity of cement, = 3.15
3.3.1.2 Setting time test
Theory
For convenience, initial setting time is regarded as the time elapsed
between the moments that the water is added to the cement, to the time that
the paste starts losing its plasticity. The final setting time is the time elapsed
between the moment the water is added to the cement, and the time when the
paste has completely lost its plasticity and has attained sufficient firmness to
resist certain definite pressure.
Apparatus
Vicat apparatus conforming to IS: 5513-1976, Balance, Gauging Trowel,
Stop Watch,etc.
Procedure
Preparation of test block

 Prepare a neat 300gms cement paste by gauging the cement with 0.85
times the water required to give a paste of standard consistency. Potable
or distilled water shall be used in preparing the paste.
 Start a stop-watch at the instant when water is added to the cement. Fill
the Vicat mould with a cement paste gauged as above, the mould resting
on a nonporous plate. Fill the mould completely and smooth off the
surface of the paste making it level with the top of the mould.
 Immediately after moulding , place the test block in the moist close to
moist room and allow it to remain there except when determinations of
time of setting are being made.
Determination of initial setting time
 Place the test block confined in the mould and resting on the non-porous
plate, under the rod bearing the needle ( C ); lower the needle gently until
it comes in contact with the surface of the test block and quickly release,
 25

allowing it to penetrate into the test block

 Repeat this procedure until the needle, when brought in contact with the
test block and released as described above, fails to pierce the block
beyond 5.0±0.5 mm measured from the bottom of the mould shall be the
initial setting time.
Determination of final setting time

 Replace the needle (C) of the Vicat apparatus by the needle with an
annular attachment(F).
 The cement shall be considered as finally set when, upon applying the
needle gently to the surface of the test block, the needle makes an
impression theorem, while the attachment fails to do so.
 The period elapsing between the time when water is added to the cement
and the time at which the needle makes an impression on the surface of
test block while the attachment fails to do so shall be the final setting.

3.8 Vicat Apparatus

 26

Calculation

Initial setting time = 10.40 - 10.10

= 30 minutes

Final setting time = 3.50 - 12.15

= 10 hour

Results

Description Results
Specific gravity of cement G = 3.15
Specific gravity of cement Initial setting time = 30 minutes

Final setting time = 10 hours

Table 3.2 Setting time test for cement

3.3.1.3 Fineness test on cement

The fineness of cement has an important bearing on the rate of hydration

and hence on the rate of gain of strength and also on the rate of evolution of
heat. Finer cement offers a greater surface area for hydration and hence faster
the development of strength. The fineness of grinding has increased over the
years. But now it has got nearly stabilized. Different cements are ground to
different fineness. The particle size fraction below 3 microns has been found
to have the predominant effect on the strength at one day while 3- 25 micron
fraction has a major influence on the 28 days strength. Increase in fineness of
cement is also found to increase the drying shrinkage of concrete.
Procedure
 Fit the tray under the sieve, weigh approximately 100g of cement to the
 27

nearest 0.01 g and place it on the sieve, being careful to avoid loss. Fit
the lid over the sieve. Agitate the sieve by swirling, planetary and linear
movement until no more fine material passes through it.
 Remove and weigh the residue. Express its mass as a percentage, R1, of
the quantity first placed in the sieve to the nearest 0.1 percent. Gently
brush all the fine material off the base of the sieve into the tray.
 Repeat the whole procedure using a fresh 10 g sample to obtain R2.Then
calculate the residue of the cement R as the mean of R1, and R2, as a
percentage, expressed to the nearest 0.1percent.
 When the results differ by more than 1percent absolute, carry out a third
sieving and calculate the mean of the three values.
TRIAL
S.No OBSERVATION I II III

1 Weight of sample taken W1 (g) 100 100 100

2 Weight of residue left after sieving W 2 (g) 4 5 4

3 Fineness (%) = (W2/W1) x 100 4 5 4

Average fineness (%) 4.33 % < 10 %
Table 3.3 Fineness test of cement
Note: Permissible value for fineness of cement as 10% as per IS: 4031-1998
3.3.2 Coarse Aggregate
The tests carried out are

3.3.2.1 Sieve analysis of coarse aggregate

3.3.2.2 Specific gravity of coarse aggregate

3.3.2.3 Aggregate impact test

3.3.2.4 Water absorption of coarse aggregate

3.3.2.1 Sieve analysis of coarse aggregate
Grading refers to the determination of the particle-size distribution for
 28

aggregate. Grading limits and maximum aggregate size are specified because
grading and size affect the amount of aggregate used as well as cement and
water requirements, workability, pump ability, and durability of concrete. In
general, if the water-cement ratio is chosen correctly, a wide range in grading
can be used without a major effect on strength. When gap graded aggregate
are specified, certain particle sizes of aggregate are omitted from the size
continuum. Gap-graded aggregate are used to obtain uniform textures in
exposed aggregate concrete. Close control of mix proportions is necessary to
avoid segregation. A graded aggregate comprises of a proportion of all sizes
in a normal concrete series. When these sizes are so proportioned to provide a
definite grading, it is known as well graded aggregate. Well graded aggregates
are desirable for making concrete,as the space between larger particles is
effectively filled by smaller particles to produce a well-packed structure. This
minimizes the cement requirement.
Apparatus
24 Test Sieves conforming to IS : 4600 -1962 Specification of 40 mm, 20mm,
16mm, 12.5 mm, 10 mm, 6.5 mm, 4.75 mm, 2.36 mm, pan, Balance, Gauging
Trowel, Stop Watch, etc.
Procedure

 The sample shall be brought to an air-dry condition before weighing and

sieving. This may be achieved either by drying at room temperature or by
heating at a temperature of 100ºC to 110°C. The air-dry sample shall be
weighed and sieved successively on the appropriate sieves starting with
the largest. Care shall be taken to ensure that the sieves are clean before
use.
 Each sieve shall be shaken separately over a clean tray until not more
than a trace passes, but in any case for a period of not less than two
minutes. The shaking shall be done with a varied motion, backward sand
forwards, left to right, circular clockwise and anti-clockwise, and with
 29

frequent jarring, so that the material is kept moving over the sieve
surface in frequently changing directions.
 Material shall not be forced through the sieve by hand pressure. Lumps
of fine material, if present, may be broken by gentle pressure with fingers
against the side of the sieve.
 On completion of sieving, the material retained on each sieve, together
with any material cleaned from the mesh, shall be weighed.

Fig. 3.9 Sieve test apparatus for CA

Observation
Cumulative
SI.No. Weight Percentage
Percentage
I S Sieve Retained on of Weight Percentage
size of Passing
Sieve (kg) Retained (%) of fineness
(%)

1 40 mm 0.158 7.9 7.9 92.1

2 20mm 1.657 82.85 90.75 9.25
3 16 mm 0.056 2.8 93.55 6.45
4 12.5 mm 0.08 4 97.55 2.45
 30

5 10 mm 0.028 1.4 98.95 1.05

6 4.75 mm 0.002 0.1 99.05 0.95
7 2.36 mm 0.001 0.05 99.1 0.9
8 Pan 0.018 0.9 100 0

Table 3.4 Sieve analysis of coarse aggregate

10

5
% of fineness
4

0
40mm 20mm 16mm 12.5mm 10mm 4.75 2.36 pan

Fig. 3.10 Sieve analysis graph for CA

Percentage of coarse aggregate = 6% (20mm)

3.3.2.2Specific gravity of coarse aggregate
Apparatus
Pycnometer, 1000-ml measuring cylinder, well-ventilated oven, Taping rod,
Filter papers and funnel etc.
Procedure

 A sample of about 500g shall be placed in the tray and covered with
distilled water at a temperature of 22 to 32°C. Soon after immersion, air
entrapped in or bubbles on the surface of the aggregate shall be removed
by gentle agitation with a rod. The sample shall remain immersed for 24
± l/2hours.
 31

 The water shall then be carefully drained from the sample, by

decantation through a filter paper, any material retained being return & to
the sample. The fine aggregate including any solid matter retained on the
filter paper shall be exposed to a gentle current of warm air to evaporate
surface moisture and the material just attains a free-running condition.
The saturated and surface-dry sample shall be weighed (weightW1).
 The aggregate shall then be placed in the pycnometer which shall be
filled with distilled water. Any trapped air shall be eliminated by rotating
the pycnometer on its side, the hole in the apex of the cone being covered
with a finger. The pycnometer shall be dried on the outside and weighed
(weightW2).
 The contents of the pycnometer shall be emptied into the tray, care being
taken to ensure that all the aggregate is transferred. The pycnometer shall
be refilled with distilled water to the same level as before, dried on the
outside and weighed (weight W3).

 The water shall then be carefully drained from the sample by decantation
through a filter paper and any material retained returned to the sample.
The sample shall be placed in the oven in the tray at a temperature of 100
to 110°C for 24 f l/2 hours, during which period it shall be stirred
occasionally to facilitate drying. It shall be cooled in the air-tight
container and weighed (weightW4).

Fig. 3.11 Pycnometer

 32

Calculation

The specific gravity of solids is determined using the relation:

Specific gravity of coarse aggregate,

(W2−W1)
G =
(W2−W1)−(W3−W4)

Where,

W1=Weight of empty pycnometer,

W2= Weight of the pycnometer with CA.

W3= Weight of the pycnometer and CA and water.

W4 = Weight of pycnometer filled with water only.

G= Specific gravity of CA.

Results

Take 1000g of CA,

Empty weight ofpycnometer, W1 = 616g

Weight of pycnometer +CA, W2 = 1181g

Weight of pycnometer + CA+

Water, W3 = 1840g

Weight of pycnometer +Water,W4 = 1482g

Specific gravity of CA, = 2.73

3.3.2.3 Aggregate impact test

The aggregate impact value gives a relative measure of the resistance of

 33

an aggregate to sudden shock or impact, which in some aggregates differs

from its resistance to a slow compressive load.
Apparatus
An impact testing machine of the general form shown in Fig. and
complying with the following:

1. A cylindrical steel cup of internal dimensions: Diameter 102 mm, Depth

50 mm and not less than 6.3 mm thick

2. A metal hammer weighing 13.5 to 14.0 kg, the lower end of which shall
be cylindrical in shape, 100.0 mm in diameter and 5 cm long, with a 2
mm chamfer at the lower edge, and case-hardened. The hammer shall
slide freely between vertical guides so arranged that the lower
(cylindrical) part of the hammer is above and concentric with the cup.

3. Means for raising the hammer and allowing it to fall freely between the
vertical guides from a height of 380.0 mm on to the test sample in the
cup, and means for adjusting the height of fall within 5 mm. Sieves-The
IS Sieves of sizes 12.5, 10 and 2.36 mm, Tamping Rod, balance of
capacity not less than 500 g, Oven etc.
Procedure

 The test sample shall consist of aggregate the whole of which passes a
12.5 mm IS Sieve and is retained on a 10 mm IS Sieve. The aggregate
comprising the test sample shall be dried in an oven for a period of four
hours at a temperature of 100 t100 to 110°C and cooled.
 The measure shall be filled about one-third full with the aggregate and
tamped with 25 strokes of the rounded end of the tamping rod. The net
weight of aggregate in the measure shall be determined to the nearest
gram (Weight A)
 The impact machine shall rest without wedging or packing up on the level
plate, block or floor, so that it is rigid and the hammer guide columns are
 34

vertical.

Fig.3.12 Impact testing machine

 The cup shall be fixed firmly in position on the base of the machine and
the whole of the test sample placed in it and compacted by a single
tamping of 25 strokes of the tamping rod.
 The hammer shall be raised until its lower face is 380 mm above the
upper surface of the aggregate in the cup, and allowed to fall freely on to
the aggregate. The test sample shall be subjected to a total of 15 such
blows each being delivered at an interval of not less than one second.

 The crushed aggregate shall then be removed from the cup and the whole
of it sieved on the 2.36mm IS Sieve until no further significant amount
passes in one minute. The fraction passing the sieve shall be weighed to
an accuracy of 0.1 g (Weight. B).
 The fraction retained on the sieve shall also be weighed (Weight C)
and, if the total weight (C+B) is less than the initial weight (Weight A)
by more than one gram, the result shall be discarded and a fresh test
made. Two tests shall be made.

Calculation

The ratio of the weight of fines formed to the total sample weight in each test
shall he expressed as a percentage, the result being recorded to the first
 35

decimal place:

Aggregate Impact Value = A/Bx100

Where,
A = Weight of aggregate sample.

B = Weight of aggregate passing through 2.36mm sieve.

Observation
Total weight of aggregate filling the cylinder, A =628g

(aggregate pass through 12.5mm sieve and retained in 10mm sieve)

Weight of aggregate passing

2.36mm sieve, W2 = 65g

Impact value = B/A

= 10.35%

Aggregate impact value = 10.35%

3.3.2.4 Water absorption of coarse aggregate

Apparatus

Balance of capacity 5kg weight, box wire basket 200mm in diameter,

water container for immersing the wire basket, absorbent cloth for surface
drying of the sample and thermos static drying oven.

Material
Coarse aggregates (5 Kg)
Procedure
 A sample of not less than 2 Kg of the aggregate shall be thoroughly
washed to remove finer particles and dust, drained and then placed in the
wire basket and immersed in distilled water at a temperature between
22°C to 32°C with a cover of at least 5 cm of water above the top of the
 36

basket.
 Immediately after immersion the entrapped air shall be removed from the
sample by lifting the basket containing it 25mm above the base of the
tank and allowing it to drop 25 times at the rate of about one drop per
second.
 The basket and aggregate shall remain completely immersed during the
operation and for a period of 24 ± l/2 hours after wards.
 The basket and the sample shall then be jolted and weighed in water at a
temperature of 22°C to 32°C (weight A).
 The basket and the aggregate shall then be removed from the water and
allowed to drain for a few minutes, after which the, aggregate shall be
gently emptied from the basket on to one of the dry clothes, and the
empty basket shall be returned to the water and weighed in water
(weightB).
 The aggregate placed on the dry cloth shall be gently surface dried with
the cloth, transferring it to the second dry cloth when the first will
remove no further moisture. The aggregate shall then be weighed (weight
C).

 The aggregate shall then be placed in the oven in the shallow tray, at a
temperature of 100 to 110°C and maintained at this temperature for
24±l/2 hours. It shall then be removed from the oven, cooled in the
airtight container and weighed (weight D).

The percentage water absorption of coarse aggregate was then calculated by

the following formula

Percentage Water absorption = (𝑊1−𝑊2) x100

𝑊2

Where,

Weight of oven dried specimen,W1 =1000g (passing through 10mmsieve)

 37

Weight of saturatedspecimen,W2 =1010g

Percentage ofwater absorption =(1010-1000)/1000

=1%
Results

Sieve analysis test result = 6%(20mm)

Specific gravityof CA =2.73

Aggregate impact value =10.35%

Water absorption = 1%

3.3.3 Fine aggregate

The tests carried out in fine aggregate were given as follows

3.3.3.1 Specific gravity test

3.3.3.2 Water absorption test

3.3.3.3 Sieve analysis test

3.3.3.1 Specific gravity test of fine aggregate

Apparatus
Pycnometer, 1000-ml measuring cylinder, well-ventilated oven, Taping
rod, Filter papers and funnel etc.
Procedure
 A sample of about 500g shall be placed in the tray and covered with
distilled water at a temperature of 22 to 32°C. Soon after immersion, air
entrapped in or bubbles on the surface of the aggregate shall be removed
by gentle agitation with a rod. The sample shall remain immersed for 24
± l/2hours.
 The water shall then be carefully drained from the sample, by decantation
through a filter paper, any material retained being return & to the sample.
The fine aggregate including any solid matter retained on the filter paper
 38

shall be exposed to a gentle current of warm air to evaporate surface

moisture and the material just attains a free-running condition. The
saturated and surface-dry sample shall be weighed (weightW1).
 The aggregate shall then be placed in the pycnometer which shall be
filled with distilled water. Any trapped air shall be eliminated by rotating
the pycnometer on its side, the hole in the apex of the cone being covered
with a finger. The pycnometer shall be dried on the outside and weighed
(weightW2).
 The contents of the pycnometer shall be emptied into the tray, care being
taken to ensure that all the aggregate is transferred. The pycnometer shall
be refilled with distilled water to the same level as before, dried on the
outside and weighed (weight W3).

Fig. 3.13 Pycnometer

 The water shall then be carefully drained from the sample by decantation
through a filter paper and any material retained returned to the sample.
The sample shall be placed in the oven in the tray at a temperature of 100
to 110°C for 24 f l/2 hours, during which period it shall be stirred
occasionally to facilitate drying. It shall be cooled in the air-tight
container and weighed (weightW4).

Calculation

The specific gravity of solids is determined using the relation:

 39

Specific gravity of Fine aggregate,

(W2-W1)
G =
(W2-W1)(W3-W2)
Where,

W1=Weight of empty pycnometer,

W2= Weight of the pycnometer with FA.

W3= Weight of the pycnometer and FA and water.

W4 = Weight of pycnometer filled with water only.

G = Specific gravity of FA.

Results

Take 500g of FA,

Empty weight ofpycnometer, W1 = 616g

Weight of pycnometer +FA, W2 = 1109g

Weight of pycnometer + FA+Water,W3= 1496g

Weight of pycnometer +Water, W4= 1329g

Specific gravity of FA, =2.61

3.3.3.2 Water absorption

Apparatus

Balance of capacity 5kg weight, box wire basket 200mm in diameter, water
container for immersing the wire basket, absorbent cloth for surface
drying of the sample and thermos static drying oven.

Material

Fine aggregates (5 Kg)

 40

Procedure

 A sample of not less than 1 Kg of the aggregate shall be thoroughly

washed to remove finer particles and dust, drained and then placed in the
wire basket and immersed in distilled water at a temperature between
22°C to 32°C with a cover of at least 5 cm of water above the top of the
basket.
 Immediately after immersion the entrapped air shall be removed from the
sample by lifting the basket containing it 25mm above the base of the
tank and allowing it to drop 25 times at the rate of about one drop per
second.
 The basket and aggregate shall remain completely immersed during
the operation and for a period of 24 ± l/2 hours after wards.
 The basket and the sample shall then be jolted and weighed in water at a
temperature of 22°C to 32°C (weightA).
 The basket and the aggregate shall then be removed from the water and
allowed to drain for a few minutes, after which the, aggregate shall be
gently emptied from the basket on to one of the dry clothes, and the
empty basket shall be returned to the water and weighed in water (
weight B).
 The aggregate placed on the dry cloth shall be gently surface dried with
the cloth, transferring it to the second dry cloth when the first will
remove no further moisture. The aggregate shall then be weighed (weight
C).
 The aggregate shall then be placed in the oven in the shallow tray, at a
temperature of 100 to 110°C and maintained at this temperature for 24 ±
l/2 hours. It shall then be removed from the oven, cooled in the airtight
container and weighed (weight D).

The percentage water absorption of fine aggregate was then calculated by

thefollowing formula
 41

Percentage Water absorption = (W2 – W1) / (W2 – W1)(W4-W3)

Where,

Weight of oven dried specimen,W1 =1000g (passing throug10mmsieve)

Weight of saturated specimen,W2 =1009.9g

Percentage of water absorption =(1010-1000)/1000

= 0.99%

3.3.3.3 Sieve analysis test

Grading refers to the determination of the particle-size distribution for

aggregate. Grading limits and maximum aggregate size are specified because
grading and size affect the amount of aggregate used as well as cement and
water requirements, workability, pump ability, and durability of concrete. In
general, if the water-cement ratio is chosen correctly, a wide range in grading
can be used without a major effect on strength. When gap-graded aggregate
are specified, certain particle sizes of aggregate are omitted from the size
continuum. Gap-graded aggregate are used to obtain uniform textures in
exposed aggregate concrete. Close control of mix proportions is necessary to
avoid segregation. A graded aggregate comprises of a proportion of all sizes in
a normal concrete series. When these sizes are so proportioned to provide a
definite grading, it is known as well graded aggregate. Well graded aggregates
are desirable for making concrete, as the space between larger particles is
effectively filled by smaller particles to produce a well-packed structure. This
minimizes the cement requirement.

Apparatus

24test Sieves conforming to IS : 4600 -1962 Specification of 4.75 mm, 2.36

mm,1.18mm, 600µm, 300µm,150µm, 90µm, pan, Balance, Gauging Trowel,
Stop Watch, etc.
 42

Procedure

 The sample shall be brought to an air-dry condition before weighing and

sieving. This may be achieved either by drying at room temperature or by
heating at a temperature of 100ºC to 110°C. The air-dry sample shall be
weighed and sieved successively on the appropriate sieves starting with
the largest. Care shall be taken to ensure that the sieves are clean before
use.
 Each sieve shall be shaken separately over a clean tray until not more
than a trace passes, but in any case for a period of not less than two
minutes. The shaking shall be done with a varied motion, backward sand
forwards, left to right, circular clockwise and anti-clockwise, and with
frequent jarring, so that the material iskept moving over the sieve surface
in frequently changing directions.
 Material shall not be forced through the sieve by hand pressure. Lumps
of fine material, if present, may be broken by gentle pressure with fingers
against the side of the sieve.
 On completion of sieving, the material retained on each sieve, together
with any material cleaned from the mesh, shall be weighed.

Fig. 3.14 Sieve test apparatus for FA

 43

Observation
SI.NO IS Weight Percentage Cumulative Percentage
Sievesize Retained of Weight Percentage of
on Sieve Retained(%) of Passing fineness
(g) (%)

1 4.75mm 43 4.3 4.3 95.7

2 2.36mm 30 3.0 7.3 92.7
3 1.18mm 56 5.6 12.9 87.1
4 600µm 297 29.7 42.6 57.4
5 300µm 450 42 84.6 15.4
6 150µm 68 8.8 93.4 6.6
7 90µm 4 6.2 99.6 0.4
8 Pan 1 0.4 100 0

Table3.5 sieve analysis for FA

Fig. 3.15 Sieve analysis graph for FA

 44

Percentage of fine sand = 18%

Percentage of medium sand = 74 %

Percentage of coarse sand = 4%

Results

Specific gravity of FA = 2.61

Water absorption = 0.99%

Percentage of FA = 74 %

3.3.4 Prosopis juliflora ash

The test carried out in Prosopis juliflora ash are as follows
3.3.4.1 Fineness test
3.3.4.2 Specific gravity test
3.3.4.1 Fineness test
The fineness has an important bearing on the rate of hydration and hence on
the rate of gain of strength and also on the rate evolution of heat. Finer cement
offers a great surface area for hydration and hence faster the development of
strength. Weigh 100 grams of cement. Continuously sieve the sample giving
circular and vertical motion for a period of 15 min. weigh the residue left on
the sieve.

TRIAL
S.No OBSERVATION I II III

1 Weight of sample taken W1 (g) 100 100 100

2 Weight of residue left after sieving W 2 (g) 2 1 1

3 Fineness (%) = (W2/W1) x 100 2 1 1

Average fineness (%) 1.33 % < 10 %
Table 3.6 Fineness test for Prosopis juliflora ash
 45

The residue retained on IS sieve number 9 (90µ) should not be greater than
10% the observations for fines of cement were recorded as per IS 4031 – 1998.
Note: Permissible value for fineness of ash as 10% as per IS: 4031-1998.
(Cement)
3.3.4.2 Specific gravity test
The specific gravity is required for calculation of yield of concrete or the
quantity of cement required for a given volume of concrete. The specific
gravity for PJA were reordered as per IS 4031-1988.

S.No Observation Weight in kg

1 Empty weight of density bottle (w1) kg 0.050

2 Weight of density bottle + PJA (w2) kg 0.083

3 Weight of density bottle + PJA + water (w3) kg 0.143

4 Weight of density bottle + water (w4) kg 0.130

5 Specific gravity G = [w2- w1] / [(w2-w1)+( w4- w3)] 2.1

Table 3.7 Specific gravity test for prosopis juliflora

Note: Permissible value for specific gravity of ash as 2 – 2.7
 46

3.4 CONCRETE MIX DESIGN

3.4.1 Introduction

Concrete is obtained by mixing the fine aggregate, coarse aggregate

and water in required proportion. The mixture when placed in the form and
allowed to cure become hard like stone. The hardening is caused by
chemical action between water and the cement due to which the concrete
grows stronger with age.

3.4.2 Mix design

Design of concrete mixes involves determination of the proportion of

the constituent namely cement, water, coarse aggregate, fine aggregate.
None of the ultimate aim of studying the various properties of the materials
of concrete is to be enable a concrete technologist is the design a concrete
mix.Design of concrete mix needs not only the knowledge of the materials
properties of concrete in the plastic condition.

3.4.2.1 Mix design for M 20 grade

Design Stipulations for Proportioning

i. Grade designation: M20

ii. Type of cement: OPC 53 grade confirming to IS 8112

iii. Maximum nominal size of aggregates: 20 mm

iv Maximum water cement ratio: 0.55

v. Workability: 75 mm (slump)

vi. Exposure condition: Mild

 47

vii. Degree of supervision: Good

viii. Type of aggregate: Crushed angular aggregate

ix. Chemical admixture: not used

Test Data for Materials

a) Cement used: OPC 53 grade confirming to IS 8112

b) Specific gravity of cement: 3.15

c) Specific gravity of

Coarse aggregate: 2.73

Fine aggregate: 2.61

d) Water absorption

Coarse aggregate: 1 percent

Fine aggregate: 0.99 percent

e) Free (surface) moisture

Coarse aggregate: Nil (absorbed moisture full)

Fine aggregate: Nil

f) Sieve analysis

Coarse aggregate: Conforming to Table 2 of IS: 383

Fine aggregate: Conforming to Zone II of IS: 383

 48

3.4.2.2Target Strength for Mix Proportioning

Fck = fck + 1.65 s

Where

Fck = Target average compressive strength at 28 days,

fck = Characteristic compressive strength at 28 days,

s = Standard deviation

From Table 1 standard deviation, s = 4 N/mm2

Therefore, target strength = 20 + 1.65 x 4 = 26.60 N/mm2

Selection of Water Cement Ratio

From Table 5 of IS: 456-2000,

maximum water cement ratio = 0.55 (Mild exposure) Based on experience

adopt water cement ratio as 0.50

1.5 >0.55, hence ok

Selection of Water Content

From Table-2, maximum water content = 186 liters

Estimated water content for 75 mm slump = 186 + 3/100 x186 = 191.6

liters

Calculation of Cement Content

Water cement ratio = 0.50

Cement content = 191.6/0.5

 49

= 383 kg/m3

From Table 5 of IS: 456, minimum cement content for mild exposure
condition = 300 kg/m3

Proportion of Volume of Coarse Aggregate and Fine Aggregate Content

From Table 3, volume of coarse aggregate corresponding to 20 mm size

aggregate and fine aggregate (Zone II) for water-cement ratio of 0.50
=0.62. Aggregates are assumed to be in SSD.

3.4.2.3 Mix Calculations

The mix calculations per unit volume of concrete shall be as follows

a) Volume of concrete = 1 m3

b) Volume of cement = (Mass of cement/specific gravity of cement)

x(1/1000)

= [383.16/3.15] x [1/1000]

= 0.122 m3

c) Volume of water = [192/1] x [1/1000]

= 0.192 m3

d) Volume of all in aggregate (e) =a – (b + c)

= 1 – (0.122 + 0.192)

= 0.686 m3

e) Volume of coarse aggregate = e x Volume of CA x sp. gravity ofCA

 50

= 0.686 x 0.6 x 3 x 1000

= 1103 kg

f) Volume of fine aggregates= e x Volume of FA x sp. gravity of FA

= 0.686 x 0.4 x 2.65 x 1000

= 727 kg

Cement Water Fine Aggregate Coarse Aggregate

(Kg) (lt) (Kg) (kg)
383 183.49 727 1103

1 0.50 1.5 3

Table 3.8 Mix Proportion

Hence OK

Materials Required for A Batch of M20 Grade Concrete:

Volume Calculations:

Volume of 1 cube = 3.375 x 10-3 m3

Volume of 1 cylinder = 5.30 x 10-3 m3

Volume of 1 beam = 50 x 10-3 m3

Total volume to be filled with concrete = 65.42 x 10-3 m3

3.4.2.4 Quantity Calculations

Cement required = 65.42 x 10-3 x 383

 51

= 25.05 kg

Fine Aggregate = 65.42 x 10-3 x 727

= 47.56 kg

Coarse Aggregate = 65.42 x 10-3 x 1103

= 72.15 kg

Water required = 0.50 x cement content

= 0.50 x 383

= 183.49 liter
 52

CHAPTER 4

EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION

4.1PREPARATION OF SPECIMEN (CONVENTIONAL CONCRETE)

4.1.1 Mixing, casting and curing of Concrete

4.1.2 Batching
For good quality concrete a proper and accurate quantity of allthe
ingredients should be used. So, the aggregates, cement and water should be
measured accurately. There are two methods of batching and weighing the
batching.

1) Volume batching
Volume batching is generally recommended for small jobs only, the
amount of each solid ingredient is measured by loose volume using
standard box known as gauge box.
2) Weigh batching
For all important works weigh batching is generally used. The
weighing is done by ordinary platform weighing machine. The method
which we have adopted is weigh batching. The weight of materials taken
for cube and cylinder mold will differ.
4.1.3 Mixing

Mixing of concrete is simply defined as the complete blending of the

material which is required for the production of a homogenous concrete.
Mixing is need to be done to bind all the materials and to avoid the voids
preset between them. All the aggregate particles should have a coat of
 53

cement paste and all the ingredients of the concrete should blend into a
uniform mass. The mixing is done either by hand or by machine.

4.1.4 Placing
After the mold is prepared, the mixed concrete materials ready for placing
is poured gently into the molds. The concrete is filled up to the level of the
mold. Fox each mix, three specimens are to be prepared to know the exact
strength of the concrete the mold. Fox each mix, three specimens are to be
prepared to know the exact strength of the concrete.

4.1.5 Finishing

After the mold has been filled, the extra concrete found should be
struck off using the trowel. It must be made sure that the surface is smooth.

4.1.6 Curing

Curing is a process to maintain an adequate moisture content and

temperature in concrete at early ages so that it can develop properties the
mixture was designed to achieve. Curing begins immediately after
placement of concrete and finishing so that the concrete may develop the
desired strength and durability.

4.2 TEST ON FRESH CONCRETE

The following are the test conducted on fresh concrete

 Slum cone test

 Compaction factor test
 Vee bee consistometer test
 Flow table test
 54

4.2.1 SLUMP CONE TEST

Slump test was determine the workability of fresh concrete slump test
as per IS1119:1959 is followed. The apparatus used for doing slump test
were slum cone and tamping rod. The internal surface of the mould was
thoroughly learned and freed from super flow us moisture and adherence of
any old set concrete before commenting the test. The mould was then filled
in four layer each ¼ of the height of the mould each layer being tamped 25
times with a standard tamping rod taken care to distribute the strokes
evenly over the cross section. After to player had been rodded, concrete
was stuck off level with a trowel and tamping rod. The mould was removed
from the concrete immediately by raising it slowly and carefully in a
vertical direction this allowed concrete to subside the subsidence was
referred as slump of concrete. This allowed concrete to subside this
subsidence was referred as slum of concrete the difference in level between
the height of the mould and that of the heighest point of subside concrete
was measured. The difference level height in mm was taken as slump of
concrete.
Trial Water Water Slump Type
cement ratio content inml value in mm of slump
1 0.5 1110 28 shear
2 0.55 1221 23 shear
3 0.6 1332 25 shear

Table 4.1 slump cone test

 55

Fig. 4.1 Slump cone test

4.2.2 COMPACTION FACTOR TEST

To measure the workablity of fresh concrete by compaction factor

test, the sample of the concrete is filled in the upper hopper up to the
brim.The trap door is opened so that the concrete falls into the lower hopper.
Then the trap door of the lower hopper is opened and the concrete is allowed
to fall in the cylinder. In the case of dry mix it is likely that the concrete may
not fall on opening the trap door. In such a case, as light poking by a rod
may be required to set the concrete in motion. The excess concrete
remaining above the top level of the cylinder is then cut off with the help of
plane blades. The outside of the cylinder is wiped clean. The concrete is
filled up exactly up to the top level of the cylinder. It is weighed to the
nearest 10g. This weight is known as “weight of partially compacted
concrete ”.The cylinder is emptied and then refilled with the concrete from
the same sample in layers 5cm depth. The layers are heavily rammed to
obtain full compaction and weighed. This weight is known as “weight
offully compacted concrete”.
 56

Mix Compaction factor test

value
Trial 1 0.89
Trial 2 0.93
Trial 3 0.88

Table 4.2 compaction factor test

4.2.3 Vee-Bee Consistometer

Place the slump cone inside the sheet metal cylindrical pot of the
consistometer the glass disc attached to the swivel arm is turned and placed
on the top ofthe concrete pot. The electrical vibrator is switched on and
simultaneously a stop watch is started. The vibration is continued till such a
time as the conical shape of the concrete disappears and the concrete
assumes cylindrical shape. Immediately when the concrete full assumes a
cylindrical shape, the stop watch is switched off. the time required for the
shape of concrete to change from slump cone shape to cylindrical shape in
seconds is known as vee-bee degree.

Sl.no Description Trial 1

1 Initial reading on the 30 cm
graduated
rod (a), cm
2 Final reading on the 21cm
graduated
rod,(b), cm
3 Slump (b)-(a), mm 9cm
4 Time for complete remolding 14 sec
sec
Table 4.3 vee bee consistometer
 57

4.2.4 Flow Table Test

To measure the flow and workability of concrete by using flowtable.
The top is cleaned of all gritty material and is wetted. The mould is kept on
center of the table,firmly held and is filled in two layer. Each layer is
rodded 25 times with a tamping 1.6cm in diameter and 61cm long rounded
at lower tamping end after the top layer is rodded evenly the excess of
concrete which has overflowed the mould is removed. The mould if lifted
vertically upward and the concrete stand on its own without support .the
table is then raised and dropped 12.5cm 15times in about 15sec.the
diameter of the spread concrete is measured in about 6 directions to the
nearest 5mm and the average spread is noted .the flow of concrete is the
percentage increase in the average diameter of the spread concrete over the
base diameter of the mold the value could range anything from 0 to 150
percentaclose look at the pattern of spread of concrete can also give a good
indication of the characteristics of concrete such as tendency for
segregation.

Flow percent = ((𝑆𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑∅−25)/ 25) × 100

= 28.68 %

The flow percent of the concrete is 28.68 %.

4.3 TESTS ON HARDENED CONCRETE

4.3.1 Compressive Strength Test

Testing of hardened concrete is important for controlling the quality of

concrete. The main purpose of testing hardened concrete is to conform that
the concrete has developed required strength. The compressive strength is
 58

one of the most important properties of hardened concrete and in general it

is the characteristic value for classification of concrete in various codes.
Compression test of cubes is the most common test conducted on hardened
concrete because it is an easy test to perform and most of the desirable
properties of concrete are comparatively related to its compressive strength.
The compression test was carried on cubical specimen of size 150mm x
150mm x 150mm in a compression testing machine of capacity 2000KN, at
a loading rate of 14N/mm2. The test was done for determining the 3rd, 7th
and 28th day compressive strength.

Fig. 4.2 Compressive strength test

Curing period Failure load(KN) Area in sq.mm Compressive

In days strength
(N/mm.sq)
7 400 22500 17.77
14 480 22500 21.33
28 540 22500 24

Table 4.4 Compressive strength test result

 59

4.3.2 Split Tensile Strength Test

The split tensile strength test is a well-known indirect test used
for determining the tensile strength of concrete. Test was carried out on
concrete cylinder of size 150mm x 300mm. In split tensile strength test,
Concrete cylinder was placed with its axis horizontal, between the loading
surface of a compression testing machine and the load was applied until
failure occurred due to a splitting in the plane, containing the vertical
diameter of the specimen. In order to reduce the magnitude of high
compression stress near the points of application of the load, narrow
packing strips of plywood were placed between the specimen and loading
plates of the testing machine. The split tensile strength was determined
after 28day water curing.

Fig 4.3 split tensile strength test

 60

Curing period in days Failure load (KN) Tensile strength

(N/mm.sq)
7 120 1.69
14 130 1.84
28 170 2.41
Table 4.5Tensile strength test results

4.3.3 Flexural Strength Test

It is the ability of a beam or slab to resist failure in bending. It is

measured by loading un- reinforced 5x5 inch (10 x 10 cm) concrete beams
with a span three times the depth (usually 40cm.). The flexural strength is
expressed as “Modulus of Rupture” (MR). Flexural MR is about 12 to 20
percent of compressive strength depending on the type, size and volume of
coarse aggregate used. However, the best correlation for specific materials
is obtained by laboratory tests for given materials and mix design.

Fig. 4.4 Flexural Strength Testing of Prisms

 61

The flexural strength of the specimen shall be expressed as the

modulus of rupture fs, which, if ‘a’ equals the distance between the line of
fracture and the nearer support, measured on thecenter line of the tensile
side of the specimen, in cm, shall be calculated to the nearest 0.5 kg/sq cm
as follows

Fs = PL/BD2

The flexural strength of the specimen shall be expressed as the modulus of

rupture fs, which, if ‘a’ equals the distance between the line of fracture and
the nearer support, measured on the centre line of the tensile side of the
specimen, in cm

Curing period in days Flexural strength (N/mm.sq)

7 1.8
14 2.4
28 2.8

Table 4.6 Flexural strength test results

 62

CHAPTER 5

CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK

Conclusion

In this first phase of my project, the literatures related to this

project are studied. By referring these literatures, a clear idea about the
partial replacement of prosopis juliflora ash when compared to an
conventional concrete is studied. This will help me to continue my project
with complete basic knowledge about the project.After reviewing the
literatures, the properties of raw materials such as cement, fine aggregate,
coarse aggregate are tested and the mix design for normal concrete is
prepared. After preparing the mix design, the compressive strength, split
tensile strength and Flexural strength of normal concrete are studied by
casting cubes and cylinders.

Future Work

• To evaluate the properties of concrete mixture by addition

of Prosopis Juliflora Ash.

• To evaluate the mix design for M20 concrete and to

evaluate fresh concrete test after adding Prosopis Juliflora
Ash in various proportions.
• To evaluate compressive strength, flexural strength, split
tensile strength concrete and compare the results with that
of conventional concrete.
 63

REFERENCES

1. Amurtha Sebastian, Anju Sambath Manapurath, Devika

Balachandran and Dona Maria Sebastian (2016), ‘Partial
replacement of cement with wood ash’, International Journal of
Science, Technology and Engineering, vol.2, pp.666-670.

2. Barathan S. and Gobinath B. (2013), ‘Evaluation of wood ash as a

partial replacement to cement’, International Journal of science,
Engineering and technology Research, vol.2, pp.2009-2013.

3. Chowdhury S., Mainor A. and Suganya O.M. (2015), ‘Strength

development in concrete with wood ash blended cement and use
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