Utilization of Silica Fume and Steel Powder as an Additive in Concrete

Abstract

Abstract: Cement concrete are designed to resist the disastrous surrounding effects such as hightemperature variations, high humid environments, coastal areas, industrial areas and other pollutant types. Engineers are continuously studying its properties and performance by blending several waste and modern materials in cement or other aggregates. The major advantage of these materials is the replacement of cement or other ingredients partially in concrete and presenting the comparable cementitious property. The use of waste material can consume these materials and also saves the principal ingredients of concrete. This can also improve the properties of concrete in fresh and hydrated states or may presents the properties comparable to the basic properties of concrete. In the current study a set of experiments had been performed to compare the use of 3 different types of mixes formed by replacing cement by silica fume, sand by steel powderand in third mix both the materials are used together. Cement and sand were replaced in different proportions such as 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30% by these materials. The ingredients are mixed in 1:1:2 proportions. The properties studied are 7 days, 21 days and 28 days compressive strengths and compaction factor. The main conclusions drawn are inclusion of silica fume increases the compressivestrength up-to a certain proportion and then reduces the strength, it also effects the setting time and consistency. Steel powder increases the strength but reduces the compaction factor. Comparatively higher early strength gain (7-days) is obtained with steel powder concrete.