An experimental study of concrete with expanded clay replacement

Abstract

This paper describes the mechanical characteristics of concrete that has expanded clay in partial replacement of coarse aggregates. Its properties are compared to conventional concrete in terms of compressive strength. The compressive strength of various mixes with replacement ratios of 20%, 30%, and 40% of coarse aggregate by expanded clay was investigated. These aggregates have a lower specific gravity and a higher water absorption rate. The prepared specimens were tested after 3, 7, and 28 days. When compared to regular concrete, there was a slight reduction in the mechanical properties. There is a decline in the strength as the percentage increases. The optimum ratio was found to be 20%, providing 72% of the strength of conventional concrete. Expansive Clay aggregate concretes have characteristics that suggest they could be one of the materials used to create structural concrete in the future. This leads to the conclusion that expanded clay aggregates can be substituted to create
concrete more cost effectively.