Strength of Lightweight Structural Concrete Acting under Imposed Load

Abstract

Background: Expanded polystyrene granules (EPG) can be used as an aggregate for producing lightweight concrete (LWC). EPG was used to make LWC with a density of 1326kg/m3 and 1337kg/m3, while the EPG concrete without fiber had a density of 1320kg/m3. Due to the low strength and brittleness of EPG LWC, the need to improve the properties of this concrete type is necessary. Objective: The aim of this paper was to research and investigate possible ways of enhancing the mechanical properties of EPG LWC. Hence, the investigation of this research work focuses on the use of chopped basalt fiber (BF) and steel fiber (SF) separately as dispersed reinforcement in EPG concrete to improve the compressive strength of EPG LWC. Methods: A general review from previous researchers on similar research was conducted, and then the experimental method was used to investigate the effect of BF and SF on the compressive strength of EPG LWC. Nine EPG concrete series were produced and tested. Compression testing was used to measure the compressive strength of the concrete sample. The density was determined by mass volume. Results: The results show the effect of BF and SF in the EPG concrete. The EPG reinforced with BF obtained its maximum compressive strength when 1.5% BF was incorporated in the EPG concrete and while EPG concrete reinforced with SF obtained its maximum compressive strength when 1% SF was included in the EPG concrete. Conclusion: Based on the results, the amount of fiber added to the EPG concrete affects not just the compressive strength but also the concrete density.

Influence of dispersed reinforcement on frost resistance of high-strength basalt concrete

“…In view of this, special requirements for durability and frost resistance are imposed on objects that are constantly exposed to low temperatures and operated both in the air and in contact with aggressive liquids. Now many studies are aimed at the active introduction of high-strength concrete in construction [4,5], standardization of the method of assessing the frost resistance of concrete [6], optimization of the ratio of raw materials in the production of high-strength concrete and prediction of the frost resistance of concrete [7][8][9]. In addition, many studies are being conducted to improve the durability and mechanical properties of concrete by including various types of fibers, mineral additives and industrial waste in their composition [10][11][12][13][14][15].…”

“…The frost resistance of concrete depends on various parameters: water-to-cementitious materials ratio [16], the porosity and degree of moisture saturation of concrete, the curing time of concrete [17], the amount of freezing water, the freezing rate and the type of filler [16]. Now the use of basalt in the construction industry is rapidly developing as a reinforcing material with high resistance to aggressive environments and strength (compared with fiberglass) [18][19][20][21]. This work is devoted to the study of the influence of various types of dispersed reinforcement from basalt fiber on increasing the frost resistance of high-strength modified basalt concrete due to the improvement of new materials with high strength characteristics and the emergence of the need for construction in extreme climatic conditions.…”