Mechanical Characterstics of Hardened Concrete with the Usage of C.E.T.P. Sludge as Replacement of Cement

Abstract

—In the present age, the waste generated from the industries is the major concern for the environment, health and cause of land filling. To reduce disposal and pollution problems emanating from these industrial waste, it is essential to develop profitable building material from them. Recycling of such wastes and using them in construction materials appears to be viable solution not only to the pollution problem but also an economical option in construction. In view of utilisation of such waste in construction materials, this paper reports on the mechanical properties of utilisation of waste sludge obtained from Common Effluent Treatment Plant(C.E.T.P) in concrete. To evaluate the effect of dry sludge on concrete performance, its physical and mechanical properties were studied. In this research an attempt is taken to bring a comparison of the sludge waste in various proportions so that the final product property of concrete mixture is same as the reference (with 0% sludge) mix. Waste sludge material was replaced with cement in various percentages as 2%, 5%,10%. Reference concrete mix is also made for comparative reasons. To characterise the mechanical behaviour of the concrete, compressive strength test was conducted by means of Universal Testing Machine (destructive) after interval of 28 days, 90 days, 180 days respectively. Water absorption test was also conducted at interval of 28, 90 , 180 days so as to get an idea of change in the water percolation property of concrete. Tests results indicated the positive relationship between 2% 5% replacement of C.E.T.P. sludge with compressive strengths. The same results obtained for 10% replacement for Water absorption ratios likely to be unfavourable.