الفهرس | Only 14 pages are availabe for public view |
Abstract Bentonite, a natural clay material, possesses multiple applications within construction and engineering fields. Its ability to increase strength, reduce permeability, and improve workability makes it especially beneficial in concrete production. As a lubricant in concrete mixtures, bentonite enables smoother textures and enhanced ease of work. It also fortifies the bond between cement and aggregate particles, resulting in a sturdier and longer - lasting concrete blend. Various codes and standards dictate the components required for bentonite mixtures. These ingredients may differ based on regional codes and regulations but typically include bentonite, sand, and water, as well as specific additives for certain applications. With millions of tons of cement used in the production of concrete releasing significant amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, it is vital to explore cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives to ordinary Portland cement (OPC). The partial substitution of cement with pozzolanic materials presents a sustainable approach within the construction industry. The objective of this study is to evaluate the properties of bentonite mortar samples and bentonite concrete samples comprised of different mix components. By analyzing laboratory test results on mix workability through slump tests, compressive strength tests, indirect tensile strength tests, and durability through surptivity tests, this research pursues to explore the influences of varying water, cement, and sand content within bentonite mortar blends as well as the effects of dolomite-to-sand ratios in bentonite concrete mixtures. Compressive strength at ages ranging from 3 to 365 days and indirect tensile strength at ages 7 and 28 days were considered in this study. Notable results include that the S8.0C3.5 mix displayed superior mechanical durability properties among all cast mortar mixes without incorporating superplasticizers and excellent fresh properties. The highest 28-day compressive strength of all cast bentonite mortar mixes reached 9.5 MPa using the S8.0C3.5 mix. Furthermore, chosen dolomite content rat ios in the concrete S8.0C3.5 mix ranged from 0.33 to 0.6 concerning total aggregate content, with higher dolomite content correlating to improved mechanical and durability properties. The optimal 28-day compressive strengths of 22.5 MPa and 20.5 MPa were achieved in D0.6 and D0.5 mixes, respectively, suggesting their suitability for use in structural concrete elements, particularly pile foundation work due to their inherent strength and durability characteristics. |