CYPRESS TREE EXTRACT AS AN ECO-FRIENDLY ADMIXTURE IN CONCRETE

In order to get high strength concrete with good rheology, proprietary chemical admixtures are normally added to the concrete during the mixing stage. However, the manufacturing of the chemicals emits toxic gasses like CO 2 to the environment which significantly contributes to global warming. The chemicals are also patented products which are imported into developing countries and sold at exorbitant prices. To alleviate this situation, research work was undertaken to determine the suitability of plant extract (cypress extract) as an eco-friendly and economical admixture for concrete. Accordingly, extracts from the bark of cypress tree was prepared by either boiling the bark of the cypress tree in water or by dipping the bark in cold water for some time.