Durability of concrete made by partial replacement of fine aggregate by colemanite and barite and cement by ashes of corn stalk, wheat straw and sunflower stalk ashes

• Durability of concretes made of corn stalk, wheat straw and sunflower stalk ash with barite, colemanite are investigated.
• This ashes can improved many durability properties of concrete.
• Colemanite and barite and these ashes can be used with concrete production.
• Wheat straw, corn stalk and sunflower stalk ash with barite can be used for radiation attack.
• Mineral admixtures generally made a positive contribution against freeze–thaw.

In this study, the durability properties of concretes involving corn stalk, wheat straw and sunflower stalk ash along with barite and colemanite are investigated. Corn stalk, wheat straw and sunflower stalk ash are substituted in place of cement, while barite and colemanite are substituted in place of fine aggregate with different percentages. Concrete specimens were tested for compressive strength at 7, 28 and 180 days. Furthermore, abrasion and freeze–thaw tests were performed to investigate the physical and mechanical properties. 180 day sulfate resistance tests were applied in 5% sodium sulfate solution (Na2SO4) for investigating the chemical effect on concrete. Moreover, 12 × 12 × 2 cm mortar samples were produced to apply radiation shielding test. Am-241 gamma ray source was used for the radiation shielding test. The present study showed that the use of the abovementioned ashes improves many engineering properties of concrete. By filling the voids, the ashes produce a stronger concrete, which is further enhanced by colemanite and barite. Additionally, the described additives improve the radiation shielding property of concrete.

The images of the wheat stalk and its ash, corn stalk and its ash, sunflower stalk and its ash.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide