CHARACTERIZATION AND EVALUATION OF LIGHTWEIGHT FLY ASH CONCRETE MODIFIED WITH EPS

This research studies the influence of partial substitution of fine aggregate by lightweight expanded polystyrene (EPS) in the behavior of a simple concrete modified with fly ash (FA). Replacement of 10%, 30%, 60% by volume of EPS and 10% FA of cement were used. Destructive and non-destructive tests to cylindrical specimens were carried out to assess physical and mechanical properties such as density, compressive strength, and dynamic modulus of elasticity. Additionally, the cementing material and EPS was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). According to the results, the aggregate percentage substitution range that guarantees a significant reduction in density and a minimum decrease in compressive strength is found between 10% and 30%.