Effect of Pismo Clams as Partial Fine and Coarse Aggregate Replacement on Workability and Compressive Strength of Concrete

Author(s) Information

Alan Munoz Pille, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow

College - Author 1

College of Architecture and Environmental Design

Department - Author 1

Construction Management Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in Construction Management

Date

6-2024

Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Paul Redden, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department

Abstract/Summary

Concrete has been utilized for ages. Unfortunately, over the hundreds of years there has been little development in the applications of new aggregate materials. The world is moving towards a sustainable way of living and as a result seashells have come into the mix. Pismo Clams are a native species to San Luis Obispo County. This marine species has the possibility of becoming a partial aggregate replacement for fine and coarse aggregates in concrete. The results of prior studies indicate a possible application of seashell use in concrete. This paper evaluates the workability and compressive strength of concrete containing fine and large Pismo Clams as a partial replacement for fine and coarse aggregate. A single concrete batch was created as a control specimen and two concrete batches were created by replacing the corresponding aggregate with either fine or large Pismo Clams. The workability and compressive strength of concrete were attained through ASTM standardized slump tests and compressive strength tests. The concrete batches containing Pismo Clams had an increase in workability. The concrete strength decreased with the replacement of Pismo Clams after 28 days of curing. However, the batch containing fine Pismo Clams saw a decrease in compressive strength by 3.9%.

URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/794