TITLE:
Comprehensive Analysis of the Effects of Superplasticizer Variation on the Workability and Strength of Ready-Mix Concrete
AUTHORS:
Tahsin Tareque, Fahmid Tousif, Mirza Addaito Billah, Abdullah Al Masum Jabir, Seyedali Mirmotalebi
KEYWORDS:
Admixture Dosage, Slump Test, Water-Cement Ratio, Concrete Compositions, Compressive Strength
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Civil Engineering,
Vol.13 No.4,
December
28,
2023
ABSTRACT: This experimental study aims to
examine the influence of many crucial parameters on the workability and
compressive strength of Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC). The study utilized two
distinct varieties of superplasticizers obtained from the local market. The
fine aggregates utilized in this study were sourced from Sylhet sand, whereas
the coarse aggregates were comprised of boulder crushed stone chips. The
experimental procedures adhered to the requirements outlined by ASTM. A
comprehensive investigation was conducted on a range of concrete compositions
that used diverse chemical admixtures. The slump test was performed at regular
intervals of 15 minutes until the slump value reached or fell below 3 cm after
the mixing of the concrete. In the scenario involving two-stage admixture
dosage, the second stage of admixture was introduced once the slump reached or
dropped below 3 cm, following which the casting process was initiated. The
process of curing concrete specimens consists of two distinct stages: the main
stage and the final stage. Cylindrical specimens, with a diameter of 4 inches
and a height of 8 inches, were manufactured for the purpose of evaluating their
compressive strength at both 7 and 28 days. During the experimental trials, the
water-cement (w/c) ratio was kept consistent, while different dosages of
admixture were applied. The findings of the study indicate that the utilization
of a two-stage dose of admixture resulted in enhanced and extended workability,
along with higher strength of the concrete in comparison to specimens that did
not incorporate any admixture. This research study enhances the comprehension
of optimizing qualities of ready-mix concrete (RMC) by varying the
superplasticizer, providing useful insights for the building sector.