An Experimental Study on Portland Pozzolana Cement Mixed with Natural Hydrocolloids

Abstract

To make a structure sturdier, the construction materials must be of higher quality. To enhance the structural qualities of fresh concrete, or improve the properties of hardened concrete, additives are added to concrete during the mixing process. To offset the high cost of chemically improving concrete, cost-effective substitutes are needed. Three hydrocolloids found in nature, namely Gum Arabic, Gum guar, and Tamarind kernel powder, have been investigated as potential concrete additives, within a range of 0.25 percent to 1.25 percent in increments, depending on the amount of cement used. The findings of the compressive strength test reveal a progressive improvement following the addition of natural hydrocolloids. Concrete strength reaches its peak at 0.75% of Gum Arabic, 0.50% of Gum guar, and 1% of Tamarind kernel powder. It is found that these hydrocolloids, when combined with concrete, improve its strength. Therefore, they may be used in the percentages specified in this study to control this effect. As an additional benefit, utilizing these hydrocolloids to improve concrete strength eliminates the need for biowaste disposal.