Mussel and Clam Shells as a Concrete Aggregate

Authors

  • Kherl Vinzent Bagon
  • Bien Joseph Alvarez
  • Rhayme Simon Dotig
  • Andrich John Matthew Dimaculangan
  • Joseph Ralph Gool
  • Calvin Franco Reyes

Keywords:

mussel and clamshells, aggregate, concrete

Abstract

The extraction of sand and aggregates cause depletion of resources and destruction to the environment. Seashells, as source of calcium carbonate, may be used as concrete aggregate. The use of seashell, as aggregate, can strengthen the performance of concrete. The study evaluated the efficiency of mussel and clamshells as concrete aggregate. Marine shell wastes may be recycled for use in construction materials when substituted or amalgamated with hydraulic cement for concrete works. Mussel and clam shells were collected, cleaned, dried and pounded. Then 50% pounded mussel shells and 50% pounded clamshells were mixed to cement and sand proportions. The mixture proportions varied from 1:2:2, 1:2:3 and 1:3:3 cement, sand and aggregate, respectively. Then drop test, heat test and strength/durability test was conducted. The cement with the ratio of 1:2:2 withstood all the tests and managed the highest load capacity with 90kN to 100kN. The cement with a ratio of 1:2:3 held up to 50kN of force before breakage, but failed the drop test of 5 feet. The cement with a ratio of 1:3:3 held a load capacity of 75kN but cracked during the drop test. The control samples resisted a load capacity of 65kN and did not crack on the drop test. All of the samples bore up against an hour of steady heat test of 210°c heat. The results suggest that seashell as aggregate provide strength and durability to concrete. It could hold up to its purpose of providing support for concrete when the right ratio of the mixture is considered. With certain ratios and proportions, seashells as aggregate could pave way for stronger buildings and other constructions. Seashells contain 95% calcium carbonate as well as organic matter and compounds. The varying curing days may affect the cement, the reason why the researchers propose following the proper cement curing days suggested by the professional engineers who may serve as technical consultants.

Published

2019-12-18