Experimental Investigation on Silica Fume and Metakaolin in Self-Curing Concrete

Abstract

Concrete is an example of a composite material that has become an essential component in the building and construction sector. Using pozzolanic materials like fly ash, silica fume, blast furnace slag, and metakaolin is being tested as one method of increasing the durability of concrete. The effect of cement that has serious negative impacts on the environment can be eliminated by using this additional cementitious material. In this investigation, an effort has been taken to examine the strength characteristics of concrete mixtures of M20 grade with cement partially replaced by metakaolin and silica fume and with all of the fine aggregate replaced by M-sand. To replace traditional curing, polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as a self-curing agent. Metakaolin is substituted at a rate of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% by weight of cement, while silica fume is substituted at a rate of 5%, 10%, and 15%, respectively. Self-curing concrete is created by adding 1.5% polyethylene glycol 6000 to regular concrete. The mortar cubes (1:3 ratio) are used in this project because it focuses on replacing the cement and fine aggregate. To study the mechanical properties of the concrete, cubes, cylinders, and prisms will be cast from the ideal percentage and tested.