STRENGTH CHARACTERISTICS OF ALCCOFINE BASED LIGHT WEIGHT CONCRETE

Concrete being an important material for construction of various structures has severe demand in the present trend of construction industry. Aggregate occupies the major quantity (70% approx.) of concrete based on which characteristics like compressive strength and porosity are controlled. The present usage of aggregate for construction is resulting in the depletion of the natural resources as well as it is showing a great impact on the environment. The work is to focus on the strength characteristics of concrete using coconut shell as an alternative material obtained from coconut processing units. Based on earlier studies a nominal amount of 30% replacement of natural coarse aggregate with coconut shell has been fixed. 'Alccofine' is used as a mineral admixture by replacing cement at various proportions in order to supplement the loss of strength. Tests have been carried out to find out the dry density, wet density and compressive strength. Comparison of the results show that the 30CS A8 (M4) achieving less density without compromising the strength.