Investigation on Strength and Durability Properties of High-Volume Fly Ash Cement Concrete

DOI

https://www.doi.org/10.59256/ijrtmr.20250503014

Published In

Volume 5, Issue 3 (2025)

Published Online

May-June 2025

Pages

117-125

Article Type

Original Article

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This paper explores high-volume fly ash concrete (HVFAC) as a sustainable alternative to conventional cement concrete, partially replacing Portland cement with fly ash. The study optimizes mix design, evaluates mechanical properties, and assesses durability to promote eco-friendly construction. Portland cement production is highly energy-intensive and a major source of CO₂ emissions. With growing environmental concerns, the construction industry seeks alternatives like fly ash, a coal combustion byproduct that reduces cement demand and reuses industrial waste. Concrete mixes with 0–40% fly ash replacement was tested for compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength at 7, 28, and 90 days. A 30% fly ash mix (C70 F30) achieved mechanical properties comparable to, or better than, the control (C100 F0), especially at later ages. Durability tests, including water absorption, mass loss due to chemical exposure, and compressive strength after acid and salt exposure, revealed that higher fly ash levels increased water absorption but also enhanced acid resistance. The C70 F30 mix demonstrated a good balance between strength and durability, confirming that HVFAC can offer long-term performance benefits and reduced environmental impact without significant compromises.