Flexural behavior of self compacting self curing concrete with lightweight aggregates

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to investigate the flexural behavior of self compacting self curing concrete (SCSCC) beams using lightweight expanded clay aggregates (LECA) and fly ash aggregates (FAA). The light weight aggregates used in this experimental investigation are high porous and water absorption capacity; so that the water required for self curing is taken from the water which is held in the internal pores of the aggregates. Self curing by the addition of lightweight fine aggregate under saturated surface dry (SSD) condition enhances the strength & durability of the concrete and it maintains saturated condition with in the hydrating cement paste. The fine aggregate was replaced by LECA/FAA by 0% to 20% at 5% interval in volume basis. The flexural behavior of self compacting self curing concrete in hardened state was carried to assess the feasibility of the study. The reinforced concrete beams of effective size 1200 mm x120 mm x180 mm and reinforced with High Yield Strength Deformed (HYSD) bars are casted and tests were performed in loading frame. The load deflection behavior, moment carrying capacity and ductility ratio of beams are found and the test results indicate that the 15% replacement of fine aggregate by LECA/FAA achieved higher moment carrying capacity and ductility ratio.