EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS ON THE STRENGTH OF FOAMED CONCRETE BLOCKS

Abstract

Foamed concrete, also known as cellular concrete or aerated concrete, is an innovative construction material that is gaining significant attention in the building industry due to its lightweight nature, excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties, and cost-effectiveness. Foamed concrete is produced by introducing air bubbles into a cement-based mixture, resulting in a porous structure that reduces its overall density without compromising its strength and durability. This experimental analysis investigates the strength characteristics of foamed concrete blocks, focusing on key factors such as compressive strength, flexural strength, and the influence of various mix proportions on the material's performance. The study aims to determine the optimal mix design for achieving a balance between lightweight properties and sufficient strength, making foamed concrete blocks suitable for a wide range of applications, including non-load-bearing walls, partitions, and insulation panels.
The first phase of the study involves the preparation of foamed concrete mixes using different proportions of cement, sand, water, and foam.The density of the foamed concrete blocks is varied by adjusting the water-to-cement ratio, the type and amount of foaming agent, and the curing conditions. The physical properties, such as density, water absorption, and shrinkage, are evaluated to determine how these factors influence the strength and durability of the foamed concrete blocks.
The experimental results for foamed concrete blocks with a mix proportion of (1:2.5:0.40:0.05) have provided valuable insights into their structural and economic viability. The compressive strength of the foamed concrete is measured at 6.4 MPa, while the flexural strength is 2.5 MPa. When compared to conventional concrete, these values are relatively lower, as traditional concrete exhibits significantly higher compressive and flexural strength properties and foamed concrete blocks are econimical as compared to conventional concrete blocks However, despite this reduced strength, foamed concrete has several notable advantages that make it a practical and efficient alternative for various construction applications.