Analysis of the Compressive Strength of Concrete Using Plastic Bags as Admixture

Abstract

The study was conducted to det ermine the compressive strength of concrete with used plastic bags at age 28 days using the proportion 1:2:4:1 and the compressive strength of concrete without used plastic bags using the proportion 1:2:4. The result of laboratory testing can be a benchmark on proceeding with other tests to determine further if used plastic bags can be an admixture for concrete. The slump for each specimen was also measured. The study revealed that the compressive strength of concrete without used plastic bags is fc' = 20.41 MPa. On the other hand, the compressive strength of concrete with used plastic bags is fc' = 10.33 MPa. It is to be noted that the compressive strength for concrete commonly used for designing structures ranges from fc' = 17.33 MPa to fc'= 21MPa. Likewise, the National Building Code states that "concrete, other than fill, shall have a minimum ultimate compressive strength at 28 days of 140 kilograms per square centimeter (2,000 lbs. per sq.in.)" or 13.82 MPa. It was found out also that the slump of concrete without used plastic bags is 26mm and the slump of concrete with used plastic bags is 30mm. Based on the result, it can be concluded that concrete with used plastic bags using the proportion 1:2:4:1 cannot be used as an admixture for concrete.