A Comparative Analysis Of Concrete Compressive Strength With Coarse Aggregate Replacement By Expanded Polystyrene Beas And Coconut Fiber Addition

Abstract

The thesis "A Comparative Analysis of Concrete Compressive Strength with Coarse Aggregate Replacement by Expanded Polystyrene Beads and Coconut Fiber Addition" explores the use of EPS beads and coconut fibers as partial replacements for conventional aggregates in concrete. The objective is to assess the effects of these eco-friendly materials on compressive strength, particularly in lightweight concrete applications. The study involves mixing different proportions of EPS beads (5%, 10%, 15%) and coconut fibers into concrete and testing their performance after curing for 7, 14, and 28 days. The results show that incorporating 5-10% coconut fiber significantly enhances compressive strength, while EPS beads reduce the overall weight of the concrete. However, higher EPS content slightly affects workability. This research demonstrates the potential of EPS and coconut fiber in producing lightweight, strong, and sustainable concrete, suitable for applications like roofing and flooring. It highlights the environmental benefits of using alternative materials in construction, aligning with global sustainability trends. The work is done using M20 grade concrete. Keywords: Lightweight concrete, Compressive strength, EPS Beads, Coconut Fiber, Universal Testing Machine