Effect of basalt on the mechanical and thermal behavior of a lightweight concrete based on Typha australis

Abstract

This article examines the impact of integrating basalt aggregates into concrete based on Typha australis for housing applications. We conducted an experimental study focusing on mechanical and thermal characterization to analyze the influence of basalt aggregates compared to the results of previous work on T. australis concrete without basalt. The results indicate that both density and mechanical resistance to compression decrease with the dosage of Typha, yet the values obtained are significantly higher than those of concrete without basalt. Additionally, thermal resistance increases with the Typha dosage. However, for low Typha dosages, the thermal resistance is slightly higher than that of concrete without basalt, whereas for high dosages, it is slightly lower. Nevertheless, this finding allows for a reduction in the building's thermal load and an enhancement of thermal comfort. However, it's important to note that the mechanical strength remains relatively low for a high-strength structure.