Análisis y diseño de hormigón celular con espumante no tradicional

Abstract

This thesis focuses on determining whether the cellular concrete designed using a non-traditional foaming agent meets the Ecuadorian technical specifications for its commercialization in masonry, and if it represents a reduction in concrete densities, thereby reducing the gravitational load on constructions that use it. Chapter 1 addresses the problem statement, highlighting the need for a less dense concrete that maintains the compressive strengths of traditional concrete. It explores the possibility of developing cellular concrete with a non-commercial foaming agent as an alternative to traditional concrete. Chapter 2 details the conceptual background that motivated the realization of this technical project, as well as the structure of the samples to be analyzed to evaluate the resistance of the designed cellular concrete, considering international and national processes and standards, such as ASTM, INEN, and ACI norms. Chapter 3 describes the methodology used to select the most suitable materials for this project, determining the process to be followed for the preparation of laboratory samples and the applicable regulations. The tests mainly followed the Ecuadorian standards, but for the foaming agent, the ASTM C796 standard was used. The results present the findings obtained, highlighting that cellular concrete with densities of 1200 and 1400 kg/m³ has been produced, meeting the requirements for use in the production of type C and B construction blocks, respectively. Therefore, it is concluded that it is possible to use this non-traditional foaming agent Xtreme Carwash to obtain foam without significantly affecting the resistance and characteristics of cellular concrete.