Strength and Durability of Concrete by using Silica Fume and GGBS

The objective of the research is to explore the mechanical and durability properties of concrete. Various concrete mixtures were put to test with cementitious concentration of 0.4% in each mix. The test was reportedly carried out using 53 grade Portland type cement which is a common type. Unlike GGBS that can have up to fifty percent of weight as the highest percentage, silica dust constitutes ten percent of cement. Casting was done in cubes and cylinders in order to test various characteristics. These mechanical properties were tested to obtain the best replacement percentage: compressive and split tensile strengths. The research indicated that silica is most suitable as the material to be used instead of cement. Its strength can be enhanced by adding 10-40 percent of GGBS to normal concrete. The durability of concrete was tested after the concrete was prepared with 5 percent HCl and H2SO4 and dried. Investigators studied the impact of acid on compressive strength, split tensile strength, and durability properties at7,28,60,90 and 180 days.