BEHAVIOUR OF LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE CONTAINING PERIWINKLE SHELLS AT ELEVATED TEMPERATURE

This study presents the results of the investigation of the response of lightweight concrete to elevated temperature. Available literature indicates that research works have not been carried out in this area. The variables are: mix proportion, water/cement ratio, curing age and temperature. The parameters that were measured are: compressive strength, density and bond characteristics of the concrete matrix. The results showed that the compressive strength of concrete decreased with increase in water/cement ratio and temperature but increased with increase in curing age and cement content while the density decreased with increase in temperature. The bond between the concrete matrix also decreased as the temperature increased. Lightweight concrete containing periwinkle shells is only suitable for structures that will be subjected to temperature less than 300 degrees C.