Improving of Lightweight Concrete Properties Produced with Pumice Aggregate of Nevşehir Region with Fly Ash Substitution

Abstract

In this study, it was aimed to determine the effects of industrial waste fly ash substitution on physical and mechanical properties of lightweight concrete. In this respect, lightweight concrete samples were produced by the use of fly ash as a cement replacement material in different proportions (1%, 3% and 5%). In lightweight concrete production, the Nevşehir region acidic pumice has been used as aggregate. The physical and mechanical properties of these lightweight concrete samples were investigated and microstructural analysis was carried out. To determine the physical differences, dry unit volume weight, capillary water absorption, porosity, compactness and freeze-thaw experiments were conducted. For the determination of mechanical properties, tensile splitting strength and compressive strength tests were applied. SEM images have been interpreted to examine the structural differences occurring within the material. As a result of the study, it was determined that the physical and mechanical properties of the ligtweight concrete were improved with the increase in the amount of fly ash. The best results were obtained from sample with 5% fly ash substitution. The use of industrial waste in a large sector such as construction, which adversely affects the ecological balance, will be an opportunity to dispose of waste.