Volume 7 Issue 3 - September 2016

  • 1. Investigation of natural plasticizers in concrete

    Authors : Aravind Sajjanar, Ravindra R, Raviraj A Kusanur

    Pages : 98-104

    DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.21172/1.73.513

    Keywords : plasticizer, rain tree pod, workability, compressive strength.

    Abstract :

    Use of plasticizers to reduce the water content in concrete has been the emerging technology. Many chemically synthesized plasticizers are in use. This article mainly presents on rain tree (Albizia saman) pod extract used as plasticizer. The extraction of solution from rain tree pod is done by crushing and soaking of pods in water and fermented to remove sugars responsible for retardation. These solutions are added to concrete in various dosages. Workability tests and compressive strength tests are conducted on normal concrete and concrete to which natural plasticizer is added. Durability test is also conducted on concrete cubes. The results showed that all solutions extracted from the rain tree pod improved workability and gives water reduction of about 10%. On adding the rain tree pod extract at 10% dosage an increase of 12.77% compressive strength is achieved. Concrete also exhibited good workability and durability. The authors have patented the use of Rain tree pod extract as plasticizer.

    Citing this Journal Article :

    Aravind Sajjanar, Ravindra R, Raviraj A Kusanur, "Investigation of natural plasticizers in concrete", Volume 7 Issue 3 - September 2016, 98-104