VISVESVARAYA TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY

“JNANA SANGAMA”, BELGAUM-590018.

2017-2018
Project Report
on

EFFECT OF CORN STARCH ON

CINDER-JUTE CONCRETE
SUBMITTED BY

MOHAMMED TABREZ AHMED [1IC14CV014]

ADBULLAH NAWAB [1IC14CV001]
BHARGAVI Y N [1IC14CV003]
POOJA R [1IC14CV017]

UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF

MR. ANAND KUMAR G and MS. RASHMI DANDAVATI

PROFESSORS, DEPT. OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

IMPACT COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND APPLIED SCIENCES

Sahakara Nagar, Bangalore-42.
 IMPACT COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND APPLIED SCIENCES
Sahakara Nagar, Bangalore-42.

CERTIFICATE

Certified that the project work entitled “EFFECT OF CORN STARCH ON

CINDER-JUTE CONCRETE” carried out by MOHAMMED TABREZ AHMED
(1IC14CV014), ABDULLAH (1IC14CV001), BHARGAVI Y N (1IC14CV003) & POOJA
R (1IC14CV017) are bonafide students of IMPACT COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND
APPLIED SCIENCES. It is certified that all corrections/suggestions indicated for Internal
Assessment have been incorporated in the Report deposited in the Departmental library.

Signature of Guide Signature of HOD

(Mr. ANAND KUMAR G) (Ms. RASHMI DANDAVATI)
Professor, Civil Dept. HOD, Civil Dept.

Signature of Principal
(Dr. A N KHALEEL AHMED)
Principal, ICEAS.
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The satisfaction & euphoria that accompany the successful completion of any task
would be incomplete without mentioning the people who made it possible because “Success is
the abstract of hard work and perseverance, but steadfast of all is encouragement and
guidance”. So, we acknowledge all those whose guidance and encouragement served as a
beacon light & crowned our efforts with success.

We are grateful to Dr. Alias madam for providing us an opportunity to complete our
academics in this esteemed college.

We would like to express our profound grateful to , Managing Director, ICEAS

for providing an opportunity to complete our academics and present this project.

We are grateful to Dr. A N KHALEEL AHMED, Principal, ICEAS for his kind co-
operation and encouragement.

We are extremely grateful to Ms. RASHMI DANDAVATI, Head of the Department of

Civil Engineering, for his co-operation and encouragement.

We express our deepest gratitude and sincere thanks to our project guide Mr. ANAND
KUMAR G, Professor, ICEAS for the valuable guidance throughout.

We also thank all the staff members of civil Engineering Department for their help
during the course of this project.

Last but not the least we thank our parents, family members & friends, for their
continuous and great support and encouragement throughout this project.

Regards,
MOHAMMED TABREZ AHMED (1IC14CV014)
ABDULLAH (1IC14CV001)
BHARGAVI Y N (1IC14CV003)
POOJA R (1IC14CV017)
Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1: GENERAL

Concrete is a composite material composed of fine and coarse aggregate bonded

together with a fluid cement (cement paste) that hardens over time. Most concretes used
are lime-based concretes such as Portland cement concrete or concretes made with
other hydraulic cements, such as calcium aluminate cements. However, asphalt concrete,
which is frequently used for road surfaces, is also a type of concrete, where the cement
material is bitumen, and polymer concretes are sometimes used where the cementing material
is a polymer.
When aggregate is mixed together with dry Portland cement and water, the mixture
forms a fluid slurry that is easily poured and moulded into shape. The cement reacts
chemically with the water and other ingredients to form a hard matrix that binds the materials
together into a durable stone-like material that has many uses. Often, additives (such
as pozzolans or superplasticizers) are included in the mixture to improve the physical
properties of the wet mix or the finished material. Most concrete is poured with reinforcing
materials (such as rebar) embedded to provide tensile strength, yielding reinforced concrete.
Famous concrete structures include the Hoover Dam, the Panama Canal, and the
Roman Pantheon. The earliest large-scale users of concrete technology were the ancient
Romans, and concrete was widely used in the Roman Empire. The Colosseum in Rome was
built largely of concrete, and the concrete dome of the Pantheon is the world's largest
unreinforced concrete dome. Today, large concrete structures (for example, dams and multi-
storey car parks) are usually made with reinforced concrete.
After the Roman Empire collapsed, use of concrete became rare until the technology
was redeveloped in the mid-18th century. Today, concrete is the most widely used human-
made material (measured by tonnage).

1.2: COMPOSITION OF CONCRETE

Many types of concrete are available, distinguished by the proportions of the main
ingredients below. In this way or by substitution for the cementitious and aggregate phases,
the finished product can be tailored to its application. Strength, density, as well chemical and
thermal resistance are variables.
 Aggregate consists of large chunks of material in a concrete mix, generally a
coarse gravel or crushed rocks such as limestone, or granite, along with finer
materials such as sand.
 Cement, most commonly Portland cement, is associated with the general term
"concrete." A range of other materials can be used as the cement in concrete too. One
of the most familiar of these alternative cements is asphalt concrete. Other
cementitious materials such as fly ash and slag cement, are sometimes added as
 mineral admixtures (see below) - either pre-blended with the cement or directly as a
concrete component - and become a part of the binder for the aggregate. To produce
concrete from most cements (excluding asphalt), water is mixed with the dry powder
and aggregate, which produces a semi-liquid slurry that can be shaped, typically by
pouring it into a form. The concrete solidifies and hardens through a chemical
process called hydration. The water reacts with the cement, which bonds the other
components together, creating a robust stone-like material.
 Reinforcement is often included in concrete. Concrete can be formulated with
high compressive strength, but always has lower tensile strength. For this reason it is
usually reinforced with materials that are strong in tension, typically steel rebar.
 Chemical admixtures are added to achieve varied properties. These ingredients may
accelerate or slow down the rate at which the concrete hardens, and impart many
other useful properties including increased tensile strength, entrainment of air and
water resistance.
 Mineral admixtures have become more popular over recent decades. The use of
recycled materials as concrete ingredients has been gaining popularity because of
increasingly stringent environmental legislation, and the discovery that such materials
often have complementary and valuable properties. The most conspicuous of these
are fly ash, a by-product of coal-fired power plants, ground granulated blast furnace
slag, a by-product of steelmaking, and silica fume, a by-product of industrial electric
arc furnaces. The use of these materials in concrete reduces the amount of resources
required, as the mineral admixtures act as a partial cement replacement. This displaces
some cement production, an energetically expensive and environmentally problematic
process, while reducing the amount of industrial waste that must be disposed of.
Mineral admixtures can be pre-blended with the cement during its production for sale
and use as a blended cement, or mixed directly with other components when the
concrete is produced.
 Organic admixtures are nowadays are being developed to prevent the pollution caused
by chemical and mineral admixtures. For example, starches and glucose are used as
setting time retarders and densifiers.
The mix design depends on the type of structure being built, how the concrete is mixed
and delivered, and how it is placed to form the structure.

1.2.1: CEMENT
Portland cement is the most common type of cement in general usage. It is a basic
ingredient of concrete, mortar and many plasters. British masonry worker Joseph
Aspdin patented Portland cement in 1824. It was named because of the similarity of its colour
to Portland limestone, quarried from the English Isle of Portland and used extensively in
London architecture.
It consists of a mixture of calcium silicates (alite, belite), aluminates and ferrites -
compounds which combine calcium, silicon, aluminium and iron in forms which will react
with water. Portland cement and similar materials are made by heating limestone (a source of
calcium) with clay or shale (a source of silicon, aluminium and iron) and grinding this
product (called clinker) with a source of sulphate (most commonly gypsum) which alters the
setting time of the cement.
In this project 53 grade OPC is used as binding material.

1.2.2: WATER
Combining water with a cementitious material forms a cement paste by the process of
hydration. The cement paste glues the aggregate together, fills voids within it, and makes it
flow more freely.
As stated by Abrams' law, a lower water-to-cement ratio yields a stronger, more
durable concrete, whereas more water gives a freer-flowing concrete with a higher slump.
Impure water used to make concrete can cause problems when setting or in causing
premature failure of the structure.
Hydration involves many different reactions, often occurring at the same time. As the
reactions proceed, the products of the cement hydration process gradually bond together the
individual sand and gravel particles and other components of the concrete to form a solid
mass.
Reaction:
Cement chemist notation: C3S + H → C-S-H + CH
Standard notation: Ca3SiO5 + H2O → (CaO)·(SiO2)·(H2O)(gel) + Ca(OH)2
Balanced: 2Ca3SiO5 + 7H2O → 3(CaO)·2(SiO2)·4(H2O)(gel) +
3Ca(OH)2 (approximately; the exact ratios of the CaO, SiO2 and H2O in C-S-H can
vary)
In this project potable water available at ICEAS is used.

1.2.3: AGGREGATES
Fine and coarse aggregates make up the bulk of a concrete mixture. Sand, natural
gravel, and crushed stone are used mainly for this purpose. Recycled aggregates (from
construction, demolition, and excavation waste) are increasingly used as partial replacements
for natural aggregates, while a number of manufactured aggregates, including air-cooled blast
furnace slag and bottom ash are also permitted.
The size distribution of the aggregate determines how much binder is required.
Aggregate with a very even size distribution has the biggest gaps whereas adding aggregate
with smaller particles tends to fill these gaps. The binder must fill the gaps between the
aggregate as well as pasting the surfaces of the aggregate together, and is typically the most
expensive component. Thus variation in sizes of the aggregate reduces the cost of
concrete. The aggregate is nearly always stronger than the binder, so its use does not
negatively affect the strength of the concrete.
 Redistribution of aggregates after compaction often creates inhomogeneity due to the
influence of vibration. This can lead to strength gradients.
Decorative stones such as quartzite, small river stones or crushed glass are sometimes
added to the surface of concrete for a decorative "exposed aggregate" finish, popular among
landscape designers.
In addition to being decorative, exposed aggregate may add robustness to a concrete
In this project gravel and cinders are used as course aggregates and river sand &
cinders are used as fine aggregate in 3:1 ratio.

1.2.4: REINFORCEMENT
Concrete is strong in compression, as the aggregate efficiently carries the compression
load. However, it is weak in tension as the cement holding the aggregate in place can crack,
allowing the structure to fail. Reinforced concrete adds either steel reinforcing bars, steel
fibres, glass fibres, or plastic fibres to carry tensile loads.
In this research we are using jute fibres as reinforcement to concrete, which increases
strength of concrete effectively up to the length of 5mm and more when it is treated with
alkali according to the project conducted by MIT. In this project untreated jute fibres are used
because the objective of our project is to develop high strength fibre reinforced green light
weight concrete.

1.2.5: CHEMICAL ADMIXTURE

Chemical admixtures are materials in the form of powder or fluids that are added to
the concrete to give it certain characteristics not obtainable with plain concrete mixes. In
normal use, admixture dosages are less than 5% by mass of cement and are added to the
concrete at the time of batching/mixing. (See the section on Concrete Production, below.)The
common types of admixtures are as follows:

 Accelerators speed up the hydration (hardening) of the concrete. Typical materials used
are CaCl
2, Ca(NO3)2 and NaNO3. However, use of chlorides may cause corrosion in steel
reinforcing and is prohibited in some countries, so that nitrates may be favoured.
Accelerating admixtures are especially useful for modifying the properties of concrete in
cold weather.
 Retarders slow the hydration of concrete and are used in large or difficult pours where
partial setting before the pour is complete is undesirable. Typical polyol retarders
are sugar, sucrose, sodium gluconate, glucose, citric acid, and tartaric acid.
 Air entraining agents add and entrain tiny air bubbles in the concrete, which reduces
damage during freeze-thaw cycles, increasing durability. However, entrained air entails a
trade off with strength, as each 1% of air may decrease compressive strength 5%. If too
much air becomes trapped in the concrete as a result of the mixing
 process, Defoamers can be used to encourage the air bubble to agglomerate, rise to the
surface of the wet concrete and then disperse.
 Plasticizers increase the workability of plastic or "fresh" concrete, allowing it be placed
more easily, with less consolidating effort. A typical plasticizer is lignosulfonate.
Plasticizers can be used to reduce the water content of a concrete while maintaining
workability and are sometimes called water-reducers due to this use. Such treatment
improves its strength and durability characteristics. Superplasticizers (also called high-
range water-reducers) are a class of plasticizers that have fewer deleterious effects and
can be used to increase workability more than is practical with traditional plasticizers.
Compounds used as superplasticizers include sulfonated naphthalene formaldehyde
condensate, sulfonated melamine formaldehyde condensate, acetone formaldehyde
condensate and polycarboxylate ethers.
 Pigments can be used to change the colour of concrete, for aesthetics.
 Corrosion inhibitors are used to minimize the corrosion of steel and steel bars in concrete.
 Bonding agents are used to create a bond between old and new concrete (typically a type
of polymer) with wide temperature tolerance and corrosion resistance.
 Pumping aids improve pumpability, thicken the paste and reduce separation and bleeding.

In this project polymer-based water reducing admixture was used.

1.2.6: MINERAL ADMIXTURES AND BLENDED CEMENTS

Inorganic materials that have pozzolanic or latent hydraulic properties, these very fine-
grained materials are added to the concrete mix to improve the properties of concrete
(mineral admixtures), or as a replacement for Portland cement (blended cements). Products
which incorporate limestone, fly ash, blast furnace slag, and other useful materials with
pozzolanic properties into the mix, are being tested and used. This development is due to
cement production being one of the largest producers (at about 5 to 10%) of global
greenhouse gas emissions, as well as lowering costs, improving concrete properties, and
recycling wastes.

 Fly ash: A by-product of coal-fired electric generating plants, it is used to partially

replace Portland cement (by up to 60% by mass). The properties of fly ash depend on the
type of coal burnt. In general, siliceous fly ash is pozzolanic, while calcareous fly ash has
latent hydraulic properties.
 Ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS or GGBS): A by-product of steel
production is used to partially replace Portland cement (by up to 80% by mass). It has
latent hydraulic properties.
 Silica fume: A by-product of the production of silicon and ferrosilicon alloys. Silica fume
is similar to fly ash, but has a particle size 100 times smaller. This results in a higher
surface-to-volume ratio and a much faster pozzolanic reaction. Silica fume is used to
increase strength and durability of concrete, but generally requires the use of
superplasticizers for workability.
 High reactivity Metakaolin (HRM): Metakaolin produces concrete with strength and
durability similar to concrete made with silica fume. While silica fume is usually dark
grey or black in colour, high-reactivity metakaolin is usually bright white in colour,
making it the preferred choice for architectural concrete where appearance is important.
 Carbon nanofibers can be added to concrete to enhance compressive strength and gain a
higher Young’s modulus, and also to improve the electrical properties required for strain
monitoring, damage evaluation and self-health monitoring of concrete. Carbon fibre has
many advantages in terms of mechanical and electrical properties (e.g. higher strength)
and self-monitoring behaviour due to the high tensile strength and high conductivity.
 Carbon products have been added to make concrete electrically conductive, for de-icing
purposes.

1.2.7: ORGANIC ADMIXTURES

Organic admixtures that have pozzolanic or latent hydraulic properties are added to
concrete mix to improve the properties of concrete or as a replacement. Research on these
admixtures is going on. Some of the starches are identifies as admixtures which can be used
as retarders, air entrainers and densifiers.

In this research we are using corn starch as admixture which is been identified as
setting time retarder and air entrainer.

1.3: MIXING OF CONCRETE

Thorough mixing is essential for the production of uniform, high-quality concrete. For
this reason equipment and methods should be capable of effectively mixing concrete
materials containing the largest specified aggregate to produce uniform mixtures of the lowest
slump practical for the work.
Separate paste mixing has shown that the mixing of cement and water into a paste
before combining these materials with aggregates can increase the compressive strength of
the resulting concrete. The paste is generally mixed in a high-speed, shear-type mixer at
a w/cm (water to cement ratio) of 0.30 to 0.45 by mass. The cement paste premix may
include admixtures such as accelerators or retarders, superplasticizers, pigments, or silica
fume. The premixed paste is then blended with aggregates and any remaining batch water and
final mixing is completed in conventional concrete mixing equipment.
In this project manual mixing was done by mixing corn starch/chemical admixture
with water separately and other components separately and combining both with thorough
mix which ensures the proper mix of the ingredients when manually mixed. But while using
mixer all the ingredients can be added simultaneously.
1.4: WORKABILITY
Workability is the ability of a fresh (plastic) concrete mix to fill the form/mould
properly with the desired work (vibration) and without reducing the concrete's quality.
Workability depends on water content, aggregate (shape and size distribution), cementitious
content and age (level of hydration) and can be modified by adding chemical admixtures, like
superplasticizer. Raising the water content or adding chemical admixtures increases concrete
workability. Excessive water leads to increased bleeding or segregation of aggregates (when
the cement and aggregates start to separate), with the resulting concrete having reduced
quality. The use of an aggregate blend with an undesirable gradation[49] can result in a very
harsh mix design with a very low slump, which cannot readily be made more workable by
addition of reasonable amounts of water. An undesirable gradation can mean using a large
aggregate that is too large for the size of the formwork, or which has too few smaller
aggregate grades to serve to fill the gaps between the larger grades, or using too little or too
much sand for the same reason, or using too little water, or too much cement, or even using
jagged crushed stone instead of smoother round aggregate such as pebbles. Any combination
of these factors and others may result in a mix which is too harsh, i.e., which does not flow or
spread out smoothly, is difficult to get into the formwork, and which is difficult to surface
finish.
Workability can be measured by the concrete slump test, a simple measure of the
plasticity of a fresh batch of concrete following the ASTM C 143 or EN 12350-2 test
standards. Slump is normally measured by filling an "Abrams cone" with a sample from a
fresh batch of concrete. The cone is placed with the wide end down onto a level, non-
absorptive surface. It is then filled in three layers of equal volume, with each layer being
tamped with a steel rod to consolidate the layer. When the cone is carefully lifted off, the
enclosed material slumps a certain amount, owing to gravity. A relatively dry sample slumps
very little, having a slump value of one or two inches (25 or 50 mm) out of one foot
(305 mm). A relatively wet concrete sample may slump as much as eight inches. Workability
can also be measured by the flow table test.
Slump can be increased by addition of chemical admixtures such as plasticizer
or superplasticizer without changing the water-cement ratio. Some other admixtures,
especially air-entraining admixture, can increase the slump of a mix.
High-flow concrete, like self-consolidating concrete, is tested by other flow-
measuring methods. One of these methods includes placing the cone on the narrow end and
observing how the mix flows through the cone while it is gradually lifted.
After mixing, concrete is a fluid and can be pumped to the location where needed.
In this project slump test is done for all types of mixes and comparison is shown
between them.
1.5: CURING
A common misconception is that concrete dries as it sets, but the opposite is true -
damp concrete sets better than dry concrete. In other words, "hydraulic cement" needs water
to become strong. Too much water is counterproductive, but too little water is deleterious.
Curing allows concrete to achieve optimal strength and hardness. Curing is
the hydration process that occurs after the concrete has been placed. In chemical terms,
curing allows calcium-silicate hydrate (C-S-H) to form. To gain strength and harden fully,
concrete curing requires time. In around 4 weeks, typically over 90% of the final strength is
reached, although strengthening may continue for decades. The conversion of calcium
hydroxide in the concrete into calcium carbonate from absorption of CO2 over several
decades further strengthens the concrete and makes it more resistant to damage.
This carbonation reaction, however, lowers the pH of the cement pore solution and can
corrode the reinforcement bars.
Hydration and hardening of concrete during the first three days is critical. Abnormally
fast drying and shrinkage due to factors such as evaporation from wind during placement may
lead to increased tensile stresses at a time when it has not yet gained sufficient strength,
resulting in greater shrinkage cracking. The early strength of the concrete can be increased if
it is kept damp during the curing process. Minimizing stress prior to curing minimizes
cracking. High-early-strength concrete is designed to hydrate faster, often by increased use of
cement that increases shrinkage and cracking. The strength of concrete changes (increases)
for up to three years. It depends on cross-section dimension of elements and conditions of
structure exploitation. Addition of short-cut polymer fibres can improve (reduce) shrinkage-
induced stresses during curing and increase early and ultimate compression strength.
Properly curing concrete leads to increased strength and lower permeability and
avoids cracking where the surface dries out prematurely. Care must also be taken to avoid
freezing or overheating due to the exothermic setting of cement. Improper curing can
cause scaling, reduced strength, poor abrasion resistance and cracking.
In this project curing is done for 28 days.
Chapter 2: PROPERTIES

2.1: CONCRETE
Concrete has relatively high compressive strength, but much lower tensile strength.
For this reason, it is usually reinforced with materials that are strong in tension (often steel).
The elasticity of concrete is relatively constant at low stress levels but starts decreasing at
higher stress levels as matrix cracking develops. Concrete has a very low coefficient of
thermal expansion and shrinks as it matures. All concrete structures crack to some extent, due
to shrinkage and tension. Concrete that is subjected to long-duration forces is prone to creep.
Tests can be performed to ensure that the properties of concrete correspond to
specifications for the application.
Different mixes of concrete ingredients produce different strengths. Concrete strength
values are usually specified as the lower-bound compressive strength of either a cylindrical or
cubic specimen as determined by standard test procedures.
Different strengths of concrete are used for different purposes.
Very low-strength - 14 MPa or less - concrete may be used when the concrete must be
lightweight. Lightweight concrete is often achieved by adding air, foams, or lightweight
aggregates, with the side effect that the strength is reduced.
For most routine uses, 20 MPa to 32 MPa concrete is often used. 40 MPa concrete is
readily commercially available as a more durable, although more expensive, option.
Higher-strength concrete is often used for larger civil projects. Strengths above 40 MPa are
often used for specific building elements. For example, the lower floor columns of high-rise
concrete buildings may use concrete of 80 MPa or more, to keep the size of the columns
small. Bridges may use long beams of high-strength concrete to lower the number of spans
required.
Occasionally, other structural needs may require high-strength concrete. If a structure must
be very rigid, concrete of very high strength may be specified, even much stronger than is
required to bear the service loads. Strengths as high as 130 MPa have been used
commercially for these reasons.
In this project compressive strength after 28 days is tested and compressive strength
after acid & base attack for 28 days and alternate wetting and drying & heating and cooling
for 28 days is also tested. Tensile strength (by split tensile method) is also tested for 28 days.
2.2: CEMENT:
Physical and Chemical Properties of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) of different grades:

Type of Cement 33 Grade 43 Grade 53 Grade

(IS: 269-1989) (IS:8112-1989) (IS: 12269-1987)

PHYSICAL PROPERITES
Minimum Compressive Strength, N/mm2
3 days 16 23 27
7 days 22 33 37
28 days 33 43 53

Fineness (m2/kg)
Minimum specific surface 225 225 225
(Blaine’s air permeability)

Setting times (minutes)

Initial, minimum 30 30 30
Final, maximum 600 600 600

Soundness, expansion (Le 10.0 10.0 10.0

Chatelier Test, mm), maximum
Autoclave test for MgO,% max 0.8 0.8 0.8

CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
Loss on ignition, % maximum 5 5 4
Insoluble residue, % maximum 4 2 2
Magnesia Mgo, % maximum 6 6 6
SO3 , % maximum for:
C3A>5 percent 2.5 2.5 2.5
C3A<5 percent 3 3 3
In this project OPC 53 GRADE cement is used.

2.3: AGGREGATES:
2.3.1: CINDERS
A cinder is a pyroclastic material. Cinders are extrusive igneous rocks. Cinders are similar
to pumice, which has so many cavities, causing its low-density of 0.641g/cm^3 that allows it
to even float on water. Cinder is typically brown, black, or red depending on its chemical
content. A more modern name for cinder is scoria.
Characteristics
The following geologic characteristics define a cinder:
 Uncemented -
 Vitric -
 Having bubble-like cavities, called vesicles
 Measuring not less than 2.0 mm in at least one dimension
 Apparent specific gravity between 1.0 and 2.0
 Typical cinders are red or black in colour.
 Contain numerous gas bubbles "frozen" into place as magma exploded into the air and
then cooled quickly.
Uses
Cinders have been used on track surfaces and roads to provide additional traction
in winter conditions. Cinders are also employed as inorganic mulch in xeriscaping, because
of excellent drainage properties and erosion resistance. In this context, they are referred to
frequently with the name "lava rock".

2.3.2: GRAVEL and SAND

Gravel is often produced by quarrying and crushing hard-wearing rocks, such as
sandstone, limestone, or basalt. Quarries where gravel is extracted are known as gravel pits.
Influences dimensional stability, elastic modulus, durability, workability, and cost of
concrete.
Classification
Coarse Aggregate (CA) - Size: 4.75 mm (3/16 in.) to 50 mm (2 in.)
Fine Aggregate (FA) - Size: 75 m (0.003 in.)
Mass concrete may contain up to 150-mm ( 6 in.) coarse aggregate.
Natural mineral aggregates, i.e., sand and gravel have a bulk density of 1520 - 1680 kg/m3
and produce Normal Weight concrete (NWC). NWC unit weight: 2400 Kg/m3.Aggregates
with bulk densities less than 1120 Kg/m3 are called Lightweight.  Aggregates weighing
more than 2080 Kg/m3are called heavyweight.

2.4: ADMIXTURES
2.4.1: CORN STARCH
It is a fine white and odourless powder with a density of 1.45 and molecular formula
C27H48O20.
The workability of concrete is increased by the addition of corn starch admixture.
The density of concrete increases by the addition of 1% of corn starch and further increase
reduces the density.
The compressive strength of concrete increases by the addition of 1% of corn and further
addition of corn starch reduce the compressive strength.
Since corn is locally available and are cheaper than chemical admixtures, we can replace
chemical admixtures by these starch admixtures.

2.4.2: CHEMICAL ADMIXTURE

Polymer based admixture is used in this project to reinforce the concrete. It is flexible and
high in tensile strength.

2.5: JUTE FIBRES

Standard Physical properties:
 Ultimate Jute Length: 1.5 to 4 mm.
 Ultimate Diameter of Jute: 0.015 to 0.002 mm.
 Jute Fibre Length: 150 to 300 cm
 Jute Colour: Jute fibre can be White, Yellow, Brown or Grey.
 Strength of Jute: 3.5 to 5 G/Den.
 Specific Gravity: 1.48
 Moisture Regain of Jute: 13.75 % (Standard).
 Elasticity: Breaking Extension 1.8% and Elastic Recovery very low.
 Resiliency: Bad.
 Dimensional Stability of Jute: Good on average.
Standard Chemical Composition of Jute:
 Cellulose > 65%
 Hemi-cellulose > 22.5%
 Lignin > 11%
 Fat and Wax > 0.3%
 Water Soluble Materials > 1.2%
Chapter 3: LITERATURE REVIEW
Akindahunsi, et al. (2015), “Strength and durability properties of concrete with starch
admixture”, analyses concrete cubes containing different percentages of the cassava and
maize by weight of cement (0, 0.5, 1.0,1.5and 2.0%).Crushed granites used as coarse and fine
aggregates. The maximum coarse aggregate size used is 22 mm. Starches used in this
investigation generally delay the setting time of cement. It was an advantage for use where a
longer period of time is required for casting the concrete. Cassava starch will lead to less
slump and higher viscosity in concretes when compared to maize starch. The durability
properties of the concrete were improved by the addition of cassava and maize starches.

Abalaka (2011), “Comparative effects of cassava starch and simple sugar in cement
mortar and concrete studied the comparative effects of cassava starch and simple
laboratory quality sugar on concrete”. Simple white sugar was used at concentrations of 0
to 1% by weight of cement and was cured at 3, 7, 14 and 28 days using ordinary Portland
cement. Cassava starch was used at the concentrations of 0 to 1% by weight of cement in
concrete. Maximum compressive strength recorded for cassava starch at 28 days occurred at
0.05% concentration with a slightly reduced initial setting time. The maximum compressive
strength increases for sugar at 28 days occurred at 0.06% concentration with an increase in
initial setting time. Within the range of cassava starch concentration presented in this work, it
could serve as a good substitute for sugar as an admixture in concrete.

Okafor (2008) the potentials of cassava flour as a setretarding admixture in

concrete”,investigated the potentials of cassava flour as a set-retarding admixture in
concrete. The properties tested include workability and setting time of the fresh concrete and
compressive strength of the hardened concrete. Cassava flour delayed the setting time of
cement up to 6h at dosage level not exceeding 3% by weight of cement. The observed
increase in the relative compressive strength is of the order of 11% at 3% dosage level of the
admixture. Enhanced workability, compaction and higher density are achieved by the use of
cassava flour as admixture in concrete. On the basis of this investigation, it would appear that
cassava flour performs satisfactorily as a set-retarding admixture in concrete.

Olekwu et al. (2014), “the use of cassava starch in earth burnt bricks”, focused on the use
of cassava starch as an additive in burnt earth bricks. Cassava is available in most part of the
country. Hence the possibility of using cassava starch as an additive for producing burnt earth
bricks is of great importance to enhance their physical property, such as compressive
strength, water absorption and abrasion resistance. Cassava starch content of 0%, 4%, 6%,
10% and 12% were used in the mix. The result from the research showed that water
absorption of burnt earth bricks was reduced considerably with the addition of cassava starch
in the mix. At an optimum amount of 6% of cassava starch content, satisfactory performance
of the earth burnt bricks was achieved and is thus recommended for incorporation as an
additive in producing earth burnt bricks .

George (2014), “Minimising hot weather effects on fresh and hardened concrete by use
of cassava powder as admixture” presented possible implementation of hot weather
concreting practices using cassava powder admixtures that eliminate or minimize fresh and
hardened concrete problems. From literature, it is found that hot weather increases the
temperature of fresh concrete demanding more water to maintain a given slump and set more
quickly. Cassava powder is a low cost admixture to increase the workability and retard the
setting time of concrete. Laboratory results showed that the use of cassava powder as a
retarder has the potential of retarding setting time, increasing workability and increasing both
the long and early term strength of the concrete. Its use is a simple and economically
preferred solution to its environmental problem.

Akindahunsi and Uzoegbo (2012), Use of starch modified concrete as a repair material,
Corn is a rich source of carbohydrate, starch extracts and a source staple food for majority of
sub-Saharan African population. Starch and its derivatives have been widely described as
rheology-modifying admixtures; in an ongoing research the effect of using corn starch
modified concrete isreported. Its effects on concrete properties such as compressive strength,
sorptivity and permeability were determined on samples with 0, 2.5 and 5% addition of starch
by weight of cement .

Akindehinde Ayotunde Akindahunsi, Wolfram Schmidt, Herbert C Uzoegbo and

SunnyE.Iyuke (2013), The Influence of Starches on some Properties of Starches and its
derivatives are known to exhibit viscosity modifying concrete characteristics. In an on-
compressive strength, heat of hydration and creep are examined. Various percentages (0.0,
0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2%) of starches by weight of cement were added to concrete mixes prepared
in the laboratory.

Suhad M Abd, Qasssim Y Hamood, Alaa S Khamees and Zainab H Ali (2016) “EFFECT
OF USING CORN STARCH AS CONCRETE ADMIXTURE” concluded that the
workability of concrete is increased by the addition of starch admixtures namely corn.The
density of concrete increases in the addition of 1% of corn starch further increase in the
addition of starch admixtures reduces the density.The compressive strength of concrete
increases in the addition of 1% of corn and further addition of corn starch reduce the
compressive strength.Since corn is locally available and are cheaper than chemical
admixtures, we can replace chemical admixtures by these starch admixtures.

GK Patel & SV Deo (2016 volume 11 IJAER) “Parametric Study of Natural Organic
Materials as Admixture in Concrete” used gram flour, ghee and triphala and concluded that
The presence of gram flour in concrete increase slump and compaction factor for both w/c
ratio i.e.0.45 and 0.4 because gram flour creates air bubble in concrete and hence acted as air
entraining agent. Concrete with Gram Flour showing positive effect on 7 and 28 days’
compressive strength. Increase in compressive strength has been observed for both TGF-I and
TGF-II because gram flour provides better packing and adhesion between aggregate and
cement. Increase in compressive strength is at higher side for TGF-I. Concrete with Gram
Flour showing positive effect on cost. Cost per N/mm2 decreasing for CGF-I and CGF-II as
compare to normal concrete

E.Hanuman Sai Gupta, V.Giridhar Kumar (volume 11, JULY 2015 IJERD) “Investigations
on Properties of Light Weight Cinder Aggregate Concrete” investigated on properties of
light weight cinder aggregate concrete and concluded that Cinder aggregates are light in
weight with low specific gravity (G= 2.05). it is considered as best alternative to conventional
coarse aggregate to produce light weight concrete. From the above test results it is concluded
that the crushing (quality) Strength is low when compared with Normal granite Aggregate.
Densities of concrete mixes with increase in cinder percentages are observed as smaller than
conventional normal aggregate concrete. Use of cinder aggregate reduces the dead weight of
structure considerably compared to that when conventional concrete is used. Cinder
aggregate concrete has good workability properties compared to conventional concrete
without cinder. structural light weight concrete with compressive strength above 17 MPa can
be produced using cinder aggregate with considerable maximum slump values ranging from
75 to 100 mm. this shows that cinder aggregate concrete has good flow value when used in
Congested steel environment. The use of cinder powder doesn’t cause serious effect on
strength properties of concrete. The percent decrease of strength is comparative low with
partial replacement of fine aggregate with cinder powder. 5. Cinder aggregate concrete with
replacement level of 40% of cinder achieved the equal target mean strength as conventional
concrete (32 MPa). This shows that granite aggregate can be replaced with 40 % Cinder
aggregate to achieve target mean strength at 28 days. The strength of light weight concrete
may also vary from about .3 MPa to 40 MPa 6. Structural light weight concrete is a concrete
having 28 days compressive strength more than 17 MPa. From test results it is concluded that
cinder aggregate is effectively used as coarse aggregate replacement up to 100 %. It produces
structural light weight concrete.
Chapter 4: TESTS PERFORMED ON AGGREGATES

4.1: ON AGGREGATES
4.1.1: ON COARSE CINDER AGGREGATE
Specific gravity & Water absorption test

Particulars Trail 1 Trail 2 Trail 3

Empty weight of pycnometer W1 0.668 0.668 0.668
Pycnometer + full water W2 1.530 1.530 1.530
Pycnometer + 1/3 aggregate W3 0.888 0.912 0.868
Pycnometer + 1/3 aggregate + water W4 1.662 1.660 1.630
G 2.5 2.14 2
W3-W1
Specific gravity =
(W2-W1) - (W4-W3)

Wet weight of sample WW 0.222 0.250 0.212

Dry weight of sample DW 0.216 0.240 0.202
W 2.78 4.17 4.95
WW-DW
Water absorption % = 𝑋 100%
DW

Therefore, specific gravity of coarse cinder aggregate = 2.07

Water absorption of coarse cinder aggregate = 3.97%

4.1.2: ON COARSE GRAVEL AGGREGATE

Specific gravity & Water absorption test

Particulars Trail 1 Trail 2 Trail 3

Empty weight of pycnometer W1 0.660 0.660 0.660
Pycnometer + full water W2 1.528 1.528 1.528
Pycnometer + 1/3 aggregate W3 1.000 1.002 1.006
Pycnometer + 1/3 aggregate + water W4 1.738 1.740 1.744
G 2.615 2.63 2.661
 W3-W1
Specific gravity =
(W2-W1) - (W4-W3)

Wet weight of sample WW 0.338 0.344 0.328

Dry weight of sample DW 0.332 0.338 0.326
1.8 1.8 0.613
W
WW-DW
Water absorption % = 𝑋 100%
DW

Therefore, specific gravity of coarse gravel aggregate = 2.635

Water absorption of coarse gravel aggregate = 1.2

Sieve analysis

IS sieve Weight retained (kg) Percentage Cumulative Percentage

weight retained percentage passing
weight retained
40mm 0 0 0 100
20mm 0.542 10.84 10.84 89.16
16mm 2.428 48.56 59.4 40.6
12.5mm 1.298 25.96 85.36 14.64
10mm 0.616 12.32 97.68 2.32
4.75mm 0.096 1.92 99.6 0.4
pan 0.02 0.4 100 0
total 5

Therefore, coarse aggregate nominal size 20mm conforms to table 2 of IS 383-1970.

4.1.4: ON RIVER SAND
Specific gravity & Water absorption test

Particulars Trail 1 Trail 2 Trail 3

Empty weight of pycnometer W1 0.660 0.660 0.660
Pycnometer + full water W2 1.528 1.528 1.528
Pycnometer + 1/3 aggregate W3 0.888 0.910 0.964
Pycnometer + 1/3 aggregate + water W4 1.664 1.678 1.712
G 2.47 2.5 2.2
W3-W1
Specific gravity =
(W2-W1) - (W4-W3)
Therefore, specific gravity of fine river sand aggregate = 2.485
Sieve analysis

IS sieve Weight retained Percentage Cumulative Percentage

weight retained percentage passing
weight retained
4.75mm 31 3.1 3.1 96.9
2.36mm 12 1.2 4.3 95.7
1.18mm 122 12.2 16.5 83.5
600microns 179 17.9 34.4 65.6
300microns 412 41.2 75.6 24.4
150microns 189 18.9 94.5 5.5
75 microns 47 4.7 99.2 0.8
pan 8 0.8 100 0
Total 1000 100 427.6

Fineness modulus of sand is 4.3

And the sand belongs to zone 3 as per table 4 IS 383 – 1970

4.2: ON CORN STARCH

Specific gravity

Particulars Trail 1 Trail 2 Trail 3

Empty weight of pycnometer W1 0.042 0.042 0.042
Pycnometer + full water W2 0.156 0.156 0.156
Pycnometer + 1/3 aggregate W3 0.062 0.060 0.060
Pycnometer + 1/3 aggregate + water W4 0.162 0.160 0.162
G 1.428 1.285 1.5
W3-W1
Specific gravity =
(W2-W1) - (W4-W3)

Therefore, specific gravity of corn starch = 1.465

Chapter 5: MIX DESIGN
MIX DESIGN as per IS 10262-2009
Stipulations for proportioning

1. Grade of Concrete: M 40
2. Type of cement: OPC 53 grade conforming to IS 8112
3. Brand of cement:
4. Maximum nominal size of aggregate: 20mm
5. Minimum cement content:
6. Maximum water-cement ratio:
7. Workability: 100mm slump
8. Exposure conditions: Mild (for reinforced concrete)
9. Method of concrete placing: manual
10. Degree of supervision: Good
11. Type of aggregate: crushed angular aggregate
12. Maximum cement content: 450 kg/m3
13. Organic admixture: pozzolana and air entrainer ( corn starch)
14. Reinforcement: jute fibres

Step 1: target strength for mix proportioning

F’ck = fck + 1.5xS
= 40+1.5*5
=48.25 N/MM2
Note: under control conditions if target strength is achieved then at field the probability of
getting compressive strength of getting compressive strength of 40 MPa is very high

Step 2: selection of water cement ratio

As per table 5 of IS456 max w/c ratio is 0.45
Note: do not start with w/c ratio above max.

Step 3 : selection of water content

as per table 2 IS456. For 20mm aggregate 25 to 50mm slurry.
max water content= 186 kg.
3 for every 25mm change .
We need 100mm slump.
50mm increase.
6
Max water content= 186 + 100 * 186=197lts.

Step 4: calculation of cement content

Max w/c ratio =0.45
Max water content =197lts
𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑡 197
Cement content = 𝑤 =0.45=437.7kg/m3
𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜
𝑐

From table 5 of IS456

Minimum cement content for severe condition is 320kg/m3
437.8kg/m3 > 320kg/m3
As per clause 8.2.42 of IS456
Max cement content = 450kg/m3
437.8 < 450kg/m3
Step 5: proportion of volume of coarse aggregate & fine aggregate content.
From table 3 of IS 10262-2009
Volume of coarse aggregate of size 20mm, for w/c 0.50 & fine aggregate zone III is 0.64.
In one case w/c ratio =0.45
Volume of coarse aggregate should be increased to decrease fine aggregate
+ 0.01 for every + 0.05 change in w/c ratio .
0.64-0.45=0.09
0.02 should be added
Volume of coarse aggregate = 0.68 m3
Volume of fine aggregate = 0.32 m3

Step 6: estimation of concrete mix calculation per m3

1. Volume of concrete =1m3
𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 437.8
2. Volume of cement = 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑥 1000 =3.15 𝑥 1000 = 0.1389 m3
𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟 197
3. Volume of water = 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑥 1000 = 1 𝑥 1000 = 0.197 m3
 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑎𝑑𝑚𝑖𝑥𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒
4. Mass of admixture =𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑟𝑐ℎ∗1000
4.378
5. 1% by mass of cement =1.465∗1000=0.0029m3.
2.18
For 0.5%=1.465∗1000=0.00148m3

6.567
For 1.5% =1.465∗1000=0.00448m3
4.378
Chemical admixture 1% by cement=∗1000=0.004m3

4.378
Volume of jute fibres =1.3∗1000 =0.0033m3.

Step 7:
Normal concrete:
1.Total volume of aggregate
V=1- (0.1389+0.197) =0.6641m3
2.Mass of coarse aggregate
Cc=0.664*0.68*2.635*1000=1189.75kg/m3
3.Mass of fine aggregate
F=0.664*0.32*2.485*1000 = 528 kg/m3
Extra water for absorption of water by coarse aggregate
(1.771/100) *1189.75 = 21.07 lts
Mix proportions
437.8: 528 : 1189.75 = 1 : 1.2 : 2.7
With 25% cinder replacement
1.Total volume of aggregate
V=1- (0.1389+0.197) =0.6641m3
2.Mass of coarse aggregate
a. gravel =0.664*0.75*0.68*2.635*1000=892.3kg/m3.
b. cinder=0.664*0.25*0.68*2.07*1000=233.66kg/m3.
3.Mass of fine aggregate
F=0.664*0.32*2.485*1000 = 528 kg/m3
Extra water for absorption of water by coarse aggregate
(1.771/100) *892.3+(3.97/100)*233.66= 25
Mix proportions
437.8:528.01:892.3:233.66 = 1:1.206:2.04:0.53
With 25% cinder replacement and jute as reinforcement
With 25% cinder replacement and jute as reinforcement and starch as admixture
0.5% starch
1.Total volume of aggregate
V=1-(0.1389+0.197+0.00148+0.0033)
=0.663-0.0033=0.6597m3
2.Mass of coarse aggregate
a. gravel =0.659*0.68*2.635*1000=1180.79kg/m3
b. cinder=0.659*0.25*0.68*2.07*1000=231.9kg/m3
3.Mass of fine aggregate
F=0.659*0.32*2.485*1000=524.03kg/m3
Extra water for absorption of water by coarse aggregate
(1.771/100) *885.59+(3.97/100)*231.9=24.8kg m3
Mix proportions
437.8:524.832:886.94:232.25=1:1.19:2.02:0.53
1% starch
1.Total volume of aggregate
V=1-(0.1389+0.197+0.00297+0.0033)
=0.661-0.0033=0.6577m3
2.Mass of coarse aggregate
a. gravel =0.657*0.75*0.68*2.635*1000=882.9kg/m3
b. cinder=0.657*0.25*0.68*2.635*1000=231.19kg/m3
3.Mass of fine aggregate
F=0.657*0.32*2.485*1000=522.44kg/m3
Extra water for absorption of water by coarse aggregate
(1.771/100) *882.9+(3.97/100)*231.9=24.8kg m3
Mix proportions
437.8:522.45:882.9:231.19=1:1.193:2.02:0.53
1.5% starch
1.Total volume of aggregate
V=1-(0.1389+0.197+0.00448+0.0033)
=0.659-0.0033=0.6557m3
2.Mass of coarse aggregate
a. gravel =0.655*0.75*0.68*2.635*1000=880.22kg/m3
b. cinder=0.655*0.25*0.68*2.635*1000=230.49kg/m3
3.Mass of fine aggregate
F=0.655*0.32*2.485*1000=520.856kg/m3
Extra water for absorption of water by coarse aggregate
(1.771/100)*880.22+(3.97/100)*230.49=24.7kg m3
Mix proportions
437.8:520.856:880.22:230.49=1:1.189:2.01:0.53

With 25% cinder replacement and jute as reinforcement and chemical as admixture
For 1%
v=1-(0.1389+0.197+0.004+0.0033) =0.656
2.Mass of coarse aggregate
a. Gravel=0.656*0.75*0.68*2.635*1000=881.565kg/m3
b. Cinder=0.656*0.25*0.68*2.07*1000=230.84kg/m3
3.Mass of fine aggregate
F=0.656*0.32*2.485*1000=521.65kg/m3
Extra water for absorption of water by coarse aggregate
(1.771/100) * +(3.97/100)* = kg m3
Mix proportions
437.8:521.65:881.565:230.84=1:1.19:2.01:0.52
Chapter 6: TESTS PERFORMED ON FRESH CONCRETE
Slump test

w/c ratio Normal With cinders With cinder Cinder and Cinder and
concrete as 25% and jute jute with jute with
_________ replacement corn starch chemical
to FA & CA admixture
1
2
3
Average

Chapter 7: TESTS PERFORMED ON HARDENED CONCRETE

7.3.1: STRENGTH TESTS
7.3.1.1: COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST
The compressive strength test was carried out acc. IS: 516-1979. At the end of curing period
i.e., 28 days, compressive strength test was conducted.
Weights:

Cubes Normal With With Cinder and jute with corn Cinder and
concrete cinders cinder starch jute with
as 25% and jute chemical
0.5% 1% 1.5%
admixture
1
2
3
Average

Compressive strength

Cubes Normal With With Cinder and jute with corn Cinder and
concrete cinders cinder starch jute with
as 25% and jute chemical
0.5% 1% 1.5%
admixture
1
2
3
 Average

7.3.1.2: SPLIT TENSILE TEST

The tensile strength test was carried out acc. IS: 516-1979. At the end of curing period i.e., 28
days, tensile strength test was conducted.

Weights:

cylinder Normal With With Cinder and jute with corn Cinder and
concrete cinders cinder starch jute with
as 25% and jute chemical
0.5% 1% 1.5%
admixture
1
2
3
Average

Tensile strength

cylinder Normal With With Cinder and jute with corn Cinder and
concrete cinders cinder starch jute with
as 25% and jute chemical
0.5% 1% 1.5%
admixture
1
2
3
Average

7.3.2: DURABILITY TESTS

7.3.2.1: Alkaline Attack Test
To determine the resistance of various concrete mixtures to alkaline attack, the residual
compressive strength of concrete mixtures of cubes immersed in alkaline water having 5% of
sodium hydroxide (NaOH) by weight of water was found. The concrete cubes which were
cured in water for 28 days were removed from the curing tank and allowed to dry for one
day. The weights of concrete cube Figure 1: Percentage Loss in Weight of M40 Due to
Acidity Figure 2: Percentage Loss in Strength of M40 Due to Acidity specimen were taken.
Then the cubes were immersed in alkaline water continuously for 90 days. The alkalinity of
water was maintained same throughout the test period. After 90 days of immersion, the
concrete cubes were taken out of alkaline water. Then, the specimens were tested for
compressive strength. The resistance of concrete to alkaline attack was found by the % loss of
weight of specimen and the % loss of compressive strength on immersion of concrete cubes
in alkaline water. Figure 3 represents the Percentage loss in Weight of M40 due to Alkalinity
respectively. Figure 4 represents the Percentage loss in Strength of M40 due to Alkalinity
respectively.
Weights:

Cubes Cinder and jute with corn starch Cinder and jute with chemical admixture
1% corn starch 1% admixture

1
2
3
Average

Compressive strength

Cubes Cinder and jute with corn starch Cinder and jute with chemical admixture
1% corn starch 1% admixture

1
2
3
Average

7.3.2.3: Acid (HCL) Attack Test

The concrete cube specimens of various concrete mixtures of size 150 mm were cast and
after 28 days of water curing, the specimens were removed from the curing tank and allowed
to dry for one day. The weigh1ts of concrete cube specimen were taken. The acid attack test
on concrete cube was conducted by immersing the cubes in the acid water for 90 days after
28 days of curing. Hydrochloric acid (HCL) with pH of about 2 at 5% weight of water was
added to water in which the concrete cubes were stored. The pH was maintained throughout
the period of 90 days. After 90 days of immersion, the concrete cubes were taken out of acid
water. Then, the specimens were tested for compressive strength. The resistance of concrete
to acid attack was found by the % loss of weight of specimen and the % loss of compressive
strength on immersing concrete cubes in acid water. Figure 1 represents the Percentage loss
Weights:

Cubes Cinder and jute with corn starch Cinder and jute with chemical admixture
1% corn starch 1% admixture
 1
2
3
Average

Compressive strength:

Cubes Cinder and jute with corn starch Cinder and jute with chemical admixture
1% corn starch 1% admixture

1
2
3
Average

7.3.2.4: Alternate wetting and drying:

The specimens are cast and cured for 28 days, after curing the specimens are subjected to
alternate wetting and drying for a period of 20 days to check the durability. The specimens
are kept for wetting in curing tank for 1 day and next day it is allowed to dry, again the
procedure is repeated, after 20 days cycle the strength of specimens are tested to check the
effect of alternate heating and cooling on concrete.
Weights:

Cubes Cinder and jute with corn starch Cinder and jute with chemical admixture
1% corn starch 1% admixture

1
2
3
Average

Compressive strength:

Cubes Cinder and jute with corn starch Cinder and jute with chemical admixture
1% corn starch 1% admixture

1
2
3
Average
7.3.2.5: Alternate heating and cooling:
The specimens are cast and cured for 28 days, after curing the specimens are subjected to
heating and cooling for a period of 20days (20cycles) to check the durability. The specimens
are heated at normal atmospheric temperature in day time and cooled during the night time.
This process is continued for 20 days and after that strength of the specimens is checked.
Weight:

Cubes Cinder and jute with corn starch Cinder and jute with chemical admixture
1% corn starch 1% admixture

1
2
3
Average

Compressive strength:

Cubes Cinder and jute with corn starch Cinder and jute with chemical admixture
1% corn starch 1% admixture

1
2
3
Average

7.3.2.6: Porosity
The specimens are cast according to the mix design and cured for 28 days in curing tank.
Then it is removed from the curing tank and surface is wiped, then the weight is noted down.
Then the samples were oven dried for 24 hours at 65°C temperature and weighed again.
Again, it is kept in oven for next 24 hours and again the weight is noted down. This process is
continued till the weight remains constant. The difference in the weight of the sample gives
the porosity.
Weight:

Days Cinder and jute with corn starch Cinder and jute with chemical admixture
1% corn starch 1% chemical admixture
ww
1
2
3
 porosity

Therefore, porosity of the corn starch mixed concrete =

Porosity of the chemical mixed concrete =

7.3.2.7: Water absorption test:

The test was carried out as per ASTM C-640.

Cubes Cinder and jute with corn starch Cinder and jute with chemical admixture
1% corn starch 1% chemical admixture

WW DW 𝑊𝑊−𝐷𝑊 WW DW 𝑊𝑊−𝐷𝑊
%W = ∗ 100 %W = ∗ 100
𝐷𝑊 𝐷𝑊

1
2
3
Avg

Therefore, water absorption of the corn starch mixed concrete =

Water absorption of the chemical mixed concrete =

Chapter 8: CONCLUSIONS