College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Construction Management Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Construction Management
Date
12-2023
Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Michael Brennan, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department
Abstract/Summary
Concrete is one of the most utilized construction materials around the world, but new and cutting-edge methods are constantly pushing the envelope for concrete’s applications and feasibility as a construction material. Unfortunately, concrete has a general lack of resistance to bending and stretching. Studies have shown several successful attempts to enhance the mechanical properties of concrete through implementation of various admixtures and methods. Steel is widely considered the primary material capable of reinforcing concrete. This paper evaluates concrete’s change in strength of flexural tension and compression as a result of implementing aluminum as a reinforcing agent. To determine the full potential of aluminum in concrete, it is tested concurrently as well as isolated from rebar. The study demonstrates an increase in compressive strength by 33.7%, with minor quantities of aluminum shavings. The strength of flexural tension post failure of the concrete beam increased by 153%. Implementation of minor aluminum quantities proved beneficial. It should be acknowledged that further tests using increased aluminum quantities produced negative results. The workability and consolidation of concrete were also impacted by introducing aluminum into the mix. Materials with similar characteristics to aluminum have potential for increasing the compressive and flexural tensile strength of concrete.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/729
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