The effect of natural pozzolans on properties of vibropressed interlocking concrete blocks in different curing conditions

Abstract

Concrete block pavements have become an attractive engineering and economical alternative to both flexible and rigid pavements because of it’s high strength and durability. The influence of pozzolanic mineral additions – natural zeolite and expanded perlite powder on the properties of concrete interlocking blocks in different curing conditions has been studied. The use of zeolite as a substitute for cement in the production of concrete blocks increased the water demand but decreased the water absorption of the blocks. Obtained results show, that concrete blocks with 10% substitution of cement with zeolitic tuff is characterized by higher strength, lower mass loss and absence of efflorescence.

Keywords

• concrete interlocking blocks
• zeolite
• perlite
• concrete strength
• curing conditions