Enhancing Concrete Properties by Adding Shred-like Steel Fibres and Steel Dust

Abstract

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In this research, fine and coarse aggregates present in the concrete were replaced with steel dust and shred-like steel fibres respectively in different ratios and the effect of their replacement on the properties of concrete was studied. Eight batches of concrete were mixed, each with the mix proportion of 1:2:4 and water- cement ratio of 0.52. Batch A was of normal concrete. In batches B, C, and D, 5%, 10%, and 15% of sand was replaced with steel dust, respectively. In batches, E, F, and G, 2%, 5%, and 8% of coarse aggregates were replaced with steel fibres. In the last batch H, 5% of sand and 5% of coarse aggregates were replaced with steel fines and steel fibres, respectively. British as well as American standards were followed during the research. Slump test was performed in the fresh state of each mix to find the effect of these replacements on its workability. 12 cubes of 150mm × 150mm × 150mm for compressive strength test and 12 cylinders of 150mm diameter and 300mm height for tensile strength test were made for each batch to check their strength after every 3, 7, 14, and 28 days. It was found that the workability of fresh concrete decreases while the density of fresh as well as hardened concrete increases with these replacements. They also result in an increase in initial compressive strength and a decrease in final compressive strength as compared to those of normal concrete. As far as tensile strength is concerned, an increase in initial as well as final strength was observed.