The Physicomechanical Evaluation of Concrete by Adding Carob Stem Ash for Rigid Pavements - Ayacucho, Peru

Abstract

Rigid pavements are subject to vehicular load transmissions that produce fissures and cracks due to poor design. This affects vehicular traffic and the environment. The objective of the study is to know the influence of carob stem ash (CTA) for the design concrete f'c 210 Kg/cm2. In which, a series of dosages of 0 % (standard concrete), 5 %, 8 % and 12 % of CTA was incorporated. The study presents a quantitative technique and quasi-experimental design. A total of 60 concrete samples was made, divided into 36 cylindrical specimens of 15 x 30 cm for compression, 12 joists of 15 x 15 x 50 cm for bending and 12 concrete discs of 5 x 10 cm for abrasion. The results, after 28 days, were as follows: (0 %) 243 Kg/cm2, 5 % 247 Kg/cm2, 8 % 224 Kg/cm2 and 12 % 216 Kg/cm2; for compressive strengths. Standard concrete (0 %) of 26 Kg/cm2, 5 % of 29 Kg/cm2, 8 % of 30 Kg/cm2 and 12 % of 31 Kg/cm2; for flexural strengths, and pattern concrete (0 %) with a wear of 0.63 %, 5 % with a wear of 0.66 %, 8 % with a wear of 0.74 % and 12 % with a wear of 0.77 % for abrasion resistance. It is concluded that the optimal and ideal percentage is the partial addition of CTA at 5 %, where it improves the mechanical characteristics of concrete in the design of rigid pavement.