Experimental Investigation on Properties of Herbocrete by using Terminalia Chebula (Kaddukai)

Abstract. Additives are ingredients and chemicals that are mixed into concrete to improve its fresh state and change its properties. The majority of admixtures are sold as chemical compositions on the market. These chemical admixtures are exceedingly costly and harm the environment significantly. Adding admixtures to concrete, on the other hand, is not a new notion; it has been used and developed in numerous countries in the past. In this project, we are investigating the possibilities of using natural materials like "Terminaliachebula” (Kadukkai). Terminalia chebula extract is added in different concentrations of 2.5%, 5%, 7.5% to the cement concrete, and its effects on the workability and strength of concrete are studied. Terminalia chebula when added to cement mortar does not affect however, it improves workability while also increasing compressive strength by 1.832 times of reference concrete. But the initial setting time of concrete is increased by 30 minutes of nominal OPC concrete.