Optimization of High Performance Concrete Mix Incorporating Bagasse Ash and Slag Aggregates using Statistical Method

Abstract

In recent years, it is found that there is an exponential increase in use of natural resources for infrastructure development of the country. Concrete is one of the most widely used materials for any infrastructural development activities. In this research an effort is made to utilize slag aggregates and bagasse ash in High Performance Concrete as partial replacement materials for M-Sand and cement respectively. A statistical approach called Taguchi method is used for deciding various combinations of replacement levels of alternate materials along with various levels of water cement ratios. L16 Taguchi orthogonal Array is utilized to decide experiment conduction matrix. Statistical analysis of the results was carried out using Analysis of Variance(ANOVA) and the optimum mix proportions of the High Performance Concrete for better strength and durability characteristics is arrived. It is found that the mix proportion containing water cement ratio of 0.3 with 10% replacement of cement by Bagasse Ash and 20% replacement of M-sand by slag sand gives satisfactory compressive strength and split tensile strength results.