Abstract

One goal of this project is to find out how the ratio of sand to cement changes the strength of concrete, and if waste products can be used in concrete. Another goal is find out how Fly Ashes affect the strength of concrete.

Put on a dust mask and gloves before experimentation. Mix batches with different ratios of sand and Portland cement and then add water according to your senses. Then put the mixture into identical molds. Then let the mixtures rest in a location with room temperature and humidity. Allow the bricks to set for at least 2-3 days. Then take the bricks out, and test them. You can test them by putting the bricks on two small pieces of wood, which are set on top of a weight scale, and then apply force by hand on the brick with a long piece of wood, and record when the brick breaks.

The best ratio came out 50% sand 50% cement. In Testing with Fly Ash, 33% Fly Ash came out with the better result, but the strength wasn't improved much.

50% sand 50% cement was the best ratio. Though the strength was not improved, but was about the same as the original, so we could use waste products like Fly Ash in concrete, and it would make concrete cheaper and you would be recycling waste.