An Experimental Investigation on Strength and Self-Healing Aspects of Fly Ash Concrete Using Bacillus Megaterium

A.Anto Edison James , V.Poornima, Dr.R.Venkatasubramani

Abstract

The deterioration of reinforced concrete structures is a very common problem due to the fact that this material has a high permeability which allows water and other aggressive media to enter, thus leading to corrosion problems. The use of sealers is a common way of contributing to concrete durability. However, the most common ones are based on organic polymers which have some degree of toxicity. This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation carried out to evaluate the influence of Bacillus Megaterium bacteria on the compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength and self-healing characteristics of concrete made without and with fly ash. Cement was replaced with four percentages (10, 20, 30 & 40) with fly ash by weight. A cell concentration of 10⁵ cells/ml of bacteria was used in making the concrete mixes. Tests were performed at the age of 28 days. Test results indicated that the inclusion of Bacillus Megaterium in fly ash concrete enhanced the compressive, splitting tensile and flexural strength. This improvement in strength was due to deposition on the bacteria cell surfaces within the pores. SEM analysis performed to obtain the crystal morphology.The present work highlights the influence of bacteria on the properties of concrete made with supplementary cementing material such as like fly ash.