Enhancing Concrete Performance in Marine Environments

Insights into Seawater Effects and Cement Optimization

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of seawater on the compressive strength of concrete through experimental analysis. Experimental cement concrete cubes of 150mm x 150mm x 150mm were cast using different mixes of concrete mixed and cured in seawater in order to determine the compressive strength. All the mixes were prepared using various water-cement ratios (w/c) ranging from 0.5 to 0.6 by weight. A total of 60 concrete cubes were made in twenty batches; the cubes were cast and cured in sea water. The curing was done for 21days, and then crushed using the Compressive Strength Test Apparatus at the prescribed age. The study shows an increase in the compressive strength of concrete for concrete specimens mixed with seawater during the early stages of curing, up to 14 days. However, after 28 days and beyond, the compressive strength of concrete mixed and cured with seawater begins to decrease.