An Experimental Study On Strength Characteristics Concrete by Partial Replacement of Coarse Aggregate with Bethamcherala Waste Stone

Abstract

In the current research work, as per the best knowledge of the authors, for the first time Bethamcherla stones has been used as a partial replacement of coarse aggregate in concrete mix. The scarcity of natural aggregate as well as finding alternative materials that can maintain or enhance the properties of concrete is crucial for sustainable construction practices. Bethamcherla stones (BS), which mainly comprises by limestone can be a potential substitute for coarse aggregate. Limestone is a common material used in concrete production, and its use as an aggregate could offer advantages such as reducing the demand for traditional aggregates and utilizing local resources efficiently. The concrete specimens, casted using BS, were kept for curing for different durations (7, 21, and 28 days), and the mechanical property was assessed using the compressive strength test, a standard procedure for evaluating concrete performance. Compressive strength is a fundamental parameter that reflects the ability of concrete to withstand loads and pressures, making it an essential property to study. It would be interesting to see the results of this study, especially how the compressive strength of the concrete changes with different replacement levels of coarse aggregate with BS aggregates (10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%). This data would provide insights into the effectiveness of using BS as a substitute and help determine the optimal replacement ratio that balances cost and performance considerations. Additionally, while compressive strength is a critical mechanical property, other properties such as flexural strength, durability, and elevated temperature effect also need to be evaluated to understand how the BS aggregates influence the overall behavior of the concrete. If this experimental study proves successful, it could pave the way for more sustainable and cost-effective construction practices in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh and other regions facing similar challenges with traditional aggregate availability. Remember that the success of this research will depend on the accuracy of testing methods, the representativeness of the specimens, and the relevance of the findings to real-world construction applications. Seeing such innovative efforts toward improving construction materials and practices for a more sustainable future is exciting.