Volume 11, No. 1, 2017
Received: 2016/12/13, Accepted:
Authors:
Radhi Alzubaidi;
Abstract:
This experimental investigation was performed to evaluate the viability of using aluminum byproduct (waste) in the production of low strength concrete. Aluminum byproduct (ALBP) is obtained from the use of aluminum alloys in construction industry. It typically comes in the form of thin, flexible and small strips that can be used in concrete production. The effects of incorporation of ALBP on the properties of fresh and hardened concrete were experimentally investigated. The study evaluated the density, swelling, compressive
and flexural strengths and workability properties of concrete mixtures to which aluminum byproduct was added in different proportions (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%) by weight of cement. Compression and flexural strength tests were carried out to evaluate the strength properties of hardened concrete. Workability and swelling of fresh concrete were also monitored and recorded. The test results indicate that ALBP reacts with cement hydration products, causing considerable decreases in workability, compressive strength,
flexural strength and density of plain concrete with the addition of ALBP. The reduction in density of concrete due to hydrogen gas released from the reaction of aluminum with alkaline cement paste solution can be positively viewed to produce lighter concrete. The results also indicate that the strength of concrete with ALBP can still be considered sufficient for some applications. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate the viability of using ALBP in the production of low-strength and lighter concrete and can help toward a
more sustainable construction.
Keywords:
Recycling, Aluminum byproduct (waste) (ALBP), Concrete production