Assessment of the Semi-Adiabatic Temperature Rise of Mass Concrete Containing Bagasse Ash

Abstract

Previous studies show that pozzolan materials are a wise choice for retarding significant heat in mass concrete placements. This research aims at studying the early age thermal property of concrete containing bagasse ash under different ambient temperatures. Moreover, the compressive strength of concrete specimens with varying ratios of the mix is assessed. Semi-adiabatic temperature rise data of four different concrete mixtures (containing pure Portland cement, 6.5%, 13%, and 20% dosage of bagasse ash by volume) are determined. Concrete specimens of size 30cm*30cm*40cm were cast and insulated using Styrofoam. The temperature measurement is taken at three different locations for every 30 minutes of interval. The influence of ambient temperature on specimens' early age thermal response is studied using a temperature chamber capable of simulating 25.15°C, 35.54°C, and 43.77°C average ambient temperatures. The results indicated that bagasse ash could replace the cement up to an optimum replacement level of 10 percent even if an early age strength drop is observed. The experiment revealed that the bagasse ash in the concrete mixture shift the temperature rise-time profile, reduces the total heat of hydration, and decreases the thermal gradient in the specimens. The peak temperature gauge of all mixes elevated as the ambient temperature increased, but mixtures containing bagasse ash show a slower heat liberation rate relative to the control group. The study proves pozzolan reaction is slow, releasing heat over a long period and not taking place early. It has merit in a massive concrete placement where cooling can lead to cracking following a significant temperature rise.