Relative Strength Performance Evaluation of Self-Compacting and High Strength Concrete Beams containing Polyethylene Terephthalate

Abstract

This research compares the flexural resistance of self-compacting concrete (SCC) and High Strength Concrete (HSC) beams with embedded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottle below the neutral axis using concrete grade of C70. Mix design for both SCC and HSC were performed in line with relevant specification. Experimental programme was achieved on both beam specimens. Workability, compressive and flexural strength tests were performed in the laboratory. The workability test revealed a more flowable concrete with the SCC mix than that of the HSC. The compressive strength for the SCC design mix yields a higher value (about 21.5% higher) than that of the HSC. The flexural resistance of each beam specimens (SCC beams and HSC beams) increases with increase in curing days of the beams but higher strength was achieved with SCC beams at 28 days curing. The stress-strain behavior is within the specified acceptable limit (0.002-0.0035) for concrete with grade less than or equal to C50/C60. It is concluded that the replacement of concrete with PET plastic bottles beneath the neutral axis will lead to reduction in volume of materials, reduction in environmental waste, price of removal of the garbage and eco-friendly environs.