Integrated mixing machine for sulfur concrete production

Abstract

The production of sulfur concrete (SC) from its ingredient materials requires controlled heating and mixing conditions at a temperature level of 130°-150 °C. Although this process considered to be common and applicable at the industrial level, it is difficult at the laboratory/research level. This paper presents the design and manufacturing details of a relatively inexpensive laboratory machine for heating and mixing sulfur concrete. The different components of the machine are described in detail to help researchers to produce high-quality sulfur concrete. In this work, the quality of the machine is verified through experimental testing of the physical and mechanical properties of different prepared SC mixtures. Thus, the homogeneity and mixing efficiency required a certain level of workability, and the full controlling of temperature during the production process has been realized. The machine is proven to be efficient, safe, and durable. The comparative study on the physical and mechanical properties of the prepared SC relative to other SC of the same ingredients but heated and mixed through other small-scale machines, showed the superiority of the mixing machine in the production of high strength concrete.