Effects of cardboard and recycled ceramics on the properties of hydraulic concrete

Abstract

The problem of hydraulic concrete in open channels stems from design factors, poor construction, and adverse weather conditions that make the concrete less durable and prone to developing surface defects that weaken its physical and mechanical strength. The study looked at the effect of cardboard ash (CC) and recycled ceramic (RC) on the physical and mechanical properties of hydraulic concrete. The research was of experimental design, which included tests of water absorption, permeability, compressive strength and flexural strength. Different combinations were used to replace cement in proportions of CC 1.5 % + RC 1 %, CC 3 % + RC 2 %, CC 4.5 % + RC 3 %, and CC 6 % + RC 4 %, which were then compared to the ASTM standard and a control sample. The results indicated a water absorption of 0.061 g/s and a permeability of 297.09 g/m², both lower and lower. The highest mechanical strength at 7, 14 and 28 days reached compressive strengths of 191.75 ± 1.22 kg/cm², 274.38 ± 3.06 kg/cm², 323.34 ± 6.85 kg/cm², and flexural resistance of 31.32 ± 0.04 kg/cm², 33.23 ± 0.16 kg/cm² and 35.76 ± 0.31 kg/cm². It is concluded that the optimal combination for physical and mechanical tests is achieved with the combination of CC 3 % and CR 2 %; for a greater amount of CC and CR with respect to the optimal sample, the concrete tends to deteriorate and lose strength.