Influence of bacteria on the compressive strength, water absorption and rapid chloride permeability of fly ash concrete

This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation carried out to evaluate the influence of Sporoscarcina pasteurii bacteria on the compressive strength and rapid chloride permeability of concrete made without and with fly ash. Cement was replaced with three percentages (10, 20 and 30) with fly ash by weight. Three different cell concentration (0, 10(3),10(5),10(7) cells/ml) of bacteria were used in making the concrete mixes. Tests were performed for compressive strength, water absorption and rapid chloride permeability at the age of 28 days. Test results indicated that inclusion of S. pasteurii in fly ash concrete enhanced the compressive strength, reduced the porosity and permeability of fly ash concrete. Maximum increase (22%) in compressive strength and four-times reduction in water absorption was observed with 105 cells/ml of bacteria. This improvement in compressive strength was due to deposition on the bacteria cell surfaces within the pores. Calcite deposition in concrete observed nearly eight times reduction in chloride permeability of fly ash concrete. The present work highlights the influence of bacteria on the properties of concrete made with supplementing cementing material such as like fly ash. Usage of bacteria like S. pasteurii improves strength and durability and strength of fly ash concrete through self-healing effect. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.