Optimization of Concrete Mix Design for Thermal Energy Storage

Abstract

An experimental investigation conducted to determine optimum mix design concrete for better strength with least cost for thermal energy storage is presented in this paper. Several concrete mix design such as M20, M25, M30, M35, and M40 were identified for conducting the experimental test. Compressive strength test was performed on each of the concrete mix design. M30 was observed to be optimum mix. Split tensile strength test was also performed on this optimum mix design. The tensile strength of the order of 0.25–0.5 of the compressive strength was noticeable. The minimum uncertainty in the reading of data set was observed for M30 mix design. The results obtained in this study will be useful in design and development of large-scale sensible heat storage unit accompanied with charging and discharging cycle. Such storage units can be incorporated in real-time thermal power plants.