CHARACTERISTIC STRENGTH OF SELF CONSOLIDATING CONCRETE BLENDED WITH PLANTAIN PEEL ASH EXPOSED TO SULPHATE ENVIRONMENT

ABSTRACT The growing demand for sustainable construction materials has driven research into the use of agricultural waste as supplementary cementitious materials in concrete production. This study investigates the characteristic strength and durability of Self-Consolidating Concrete (SCC) blended with Plantain Peel Ash (PPA) as a partial replacement for ordinary Portland cement, with particular emphasis on performance in a sulphate environment. Plantain peel ash was produced through controlled burning and grinding of dried plantain peels and incorporated into SCC mixes at replacement levels of 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% by weight of cement. The fresh properties of SCC were evaluated using slump flow, V-funnel, and L-box tests to assess flowability, passing ability, and stability. Mechanical properties were determined through compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength tests at curing ages of 7, 21, and 28 days. Durability performance was assessed by exposing specimens to sulphate solutions and monitoring strength development. The results indicate that SCC blended with 5–10% PPA exhibits satisfactory workability and improved mechanical performance compared to the control mix, while also demonstrating enhanced resistance to sulphate attack due to the pozzolanic reaction of PPA, which reduces calcium hydroxide content and permeability. However, higher replacement levels (15%) resulted in reduced strength and workability. The study concludes that Plantain Peel Ash can be effectively utilized as a sustainable supplementary cementitious material in SCC at optimal replacement levels, contributing to improved durability, reduced environmental impact, and the promotion of eco-friendly construction practices.