AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON PROPERTIES OF COVER CONCRETE

Abstract

In fast growing today’s world development of new building materials and Processing & utilization of industrial waste is being given the top priority in the program of building research at a very high rate. This is important for achieving maximum disposal of wastes and conservation of scarce resources and materials. The bricks produced were about 29% lighter than clay bricks. The compressive strength of bricks manufactured from fly ash possessed higher than 20 MPa. This generally exceeds the best of load carrying clay bricks available by more than 25% and is several times better than acceptable commercially available common clay bricks. Other important characteristics of the fly ash bricks have been evaluated. The values of these characteristics for fly ash bricks are excellent and have exceeded those pertaining to clay bricks. Moreover, fly ash bricks have been produced with a naturally occurring reddish colour similar to that of normal clay bricks. The new bricks and process have been patented. This dissertation presents the results of testing and the advantages gained by this type of fly ash bricks over conventional clay bricks. In the present study, the effects of fly ash on the properties of bricks are studied and the behaviour of fly ash bricks is compared with conventional burnt clay bricks. The various properties of fly ash bricks with different materials were tested. The properties studied water absorption, hardness, efflorescence, soundness, shape and size, crushing strength and basic compressive strength of the prism using different mortar mixes normally 1: 3, 1: 4 and 1: 5 cement-sand mortars. In general bricks are made by top fertile agricultural soil but by using fly ash, 28 percent of top fertile agricultural soil is saved. Use of fly ash in brick making also is beneficial in diverse ways. As compared to conventional clay bricks fly ash bricks are stronger, more durable and yet more economical. Also, the process of fly ash brick manufacturing results in lesser pollution. Being less permeable as compared to clay bricks dampness