CHARACTERIZATION of CONCRETE MIXES for IRRIGATION CANALS

Recently, the construction of water structures and seepage reduction are critical issues. This importance was induced due to the required specifications for the desired type of concrete. Mechanical strength and permeability are the two major parameters in achieving the design mix efficiently. This study investigates the effect of different types of admixures on the performance of concrete. The performance of concrete was evaluated using the mechanical strength and permeability tests. The concrete mixes admixtures include A retarder (Sika R2004 type G), water proofing material (addicrete DM2), superplasticizers (sikament), additive (silica fume) and water proofing coating (sika 107). Some admixtures were used to increase the strength and others to reduce the permeability. The aim of the investigation is to conclude the optimum percentage of each admixture to achieve the highest mechanical strength and the lowest permeability. The design mix ratios are 0.7% of cement for the retarder, 1kg/m3 for addicrete DM2, 80 kg/m3 for silica fume and (7.2% and 10%) for sikament. All compressive strength and permeability tests were implemented according to the British standards. Keeping in consideration that all permeability tests were held with and without water-proofing material (sika 107). This coating was used to enhance the permeability of the concrete in the water structure construction site. On the other hand, the effect of the admixtures on the consistency of the concrete was shown through slump test for all concrete mixes. Adding addicrete to the retarder coated with sika water proofing resulted in an optimum strength (52 MPa) and permeability (2.1 cm) after 28 days. © School of Engineering, Taylor’s University