Experimental data on strength properties of mussel shell concretes and specimen size effect

Abstract

In the present project two series of laboratory tests were performed. The first series aimed at investigating the feasibility of using waste mussel shells as aggregates in the production of concrete. Specimens were prepared by using various types of cements and shells of different size. Their 28-day unconfined compressive strength and stress-strain response was evaluated and compared with the one of specimens composed with compatible calcareous sand or gravel. The second series was carried out on specimens of cement grouted soils with different particle sizes to assess how the size of specimens used for strength testing influences the measured strength and stress-strain response. The model that was utilized to relate the size effect on the compressive strength is the one proposed by Carpinteri.

Keywords

• Grout
• Concrete
• Superplasticiser
• Acrylic resin
• Mussel shells
• Size effect