Empirical research on strength and durability properties of bottom ash for sustainable concrete practice

Abstract

The prime constituents utilized in the construction field are concrete because of its easy availability and also by considering strength properties and cost-effective factors. It is composed essentially of fine aggregate, coarse aggregate and cement, where the fine aggregate manipulated during manufacturing is natural sand. The requirement for sand is thriving due to its abundant utilization in the construction industry, thereby the natural resource is becoming diminished. In sequence to overcome the depletion of sand, empirical research has been done on strength characteristics of concrete with bottom ash to partially counterbalance fine aggregate. Bottom ash is a residue obtained at the thermal power plant by combusting coal. It can be utilised in concrete as a partial replacing material for cement or fine aggregate or coarse aggregate. The practice of bottom ash in construction makes the disposal eco-friendly and hence reduces sand quarrying. In this paper, it is affirmed that bottom ash can partially (15%, 25%, 30%) replace fine aggregates without compromising the qualities of concrete.