Properties of porous blocks using different sizes of coarse aggregate for pavement

Abstract

The objective of this research is to look at the potential of using different coarse aggregate sizes in Porous Concrete Paving Blocks (PCPB) mixes as a part of paving surface. Laboratory tests were conducted to examine the effect of particle sizes of coarse aggregate. Two coarse aggregate sizes were selected; passing 8 mm retains 5 mm and passing 10 mm retains 8 mm. Fine aggregate was eliminated from being mixed. Compressive strength, porosity and skid resistance tests were performed to evaluate the properties of PCPB. The test results indicated that there was a reduction in the strength when coarse aggregate at different size was used. Scanning electron microscopy showed that voids, poor bonding and lack of adhesion at the boundaries of the aggregate with cement paste contributing to the low PCPB strength. However, both PCPB specimens provided 30 % to 40 % increase in skid resistance compared to Concrete Paving Blocks (CPB).