Prediction of Compressive Strength of Concrete Using Recycled Materials from Fly Ash Based on Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity and Design of Experiment

Abstract

The compressive strength is one of the most important properties of concrete, and it is the most controlled parameter during quality control. Many scientists have studied the application of ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) to assess concrete quality for decades, due to its distinct advantages compared to conventional compression measurements. The use of fly ash, a by-product of thermal power plants, as one of the component materials in concrete production, replacing certain portions of cement, is one of the important solutions to reduce environmental pollution. The supplementary fly ash will affect the mechanical properties of concrete, especially its compressive strength. The paper proposes a method that allows us to predict the concrete compressive strength when changing its mixture parameters and fly ash content based on ultrasonic pulse velocity. The materials for preparing the specimens are available in Central Vietnam and fly ash is used as partial replacement of cement. Thus, this study contributes to the handling of fly ash from thermal power plants in order to protect the environment for sustainable development in the future.