Experimental Studies on Strength and Durability Properties of Structural Lightweight Concrete Using Pumice as a Coarse Aggregate and Polypropylene Fibers

When natural aggregate is depleted, construction operations are growing more rapidly. In this experimental study,it is investigated employing pumice as a substitute for the natural coarse aggregate. As we know, the density of nominal concrete is 2400 kg/m3. The development of new concretes is aimed to solving more problems as the components of structural members are large in size. Therefore, a concrete must have a lower density while maintaining its sufficient compressive strength in order to make the components lighter. All we know that coarse aggregate occupies larger volume in concrete and it increases the self-weight of concrete. Pumice stone is used because of its lightweight and it reduces the self-weight. The present experimental study aims to investigate the lightweight concrete for M25 grade by substituting pumice stone for natural aggregate in corresponds that vary 0–27.5%. The current experimental study is concentrated on the durability and strength characteristics of lightweight concrete reinforced with polypropylene fibers. The test's results showed that the PPF dosage should be 0.3% and that lightweight aggregate should replace 25% of the aggregate.