Mechanical and microstructural properties of self-compacting concrete with Aloe vera gel as a natural admixture
Shaik Gulnar1 and Pathangi Eswanth2
Assistant Professor (Ad hoc), Department of Civil Engineering,Rayalaseema University College of Engineering, Kurnool,Andhra Pradesh-518007,India1
Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering,G. Pulla Reddy Engineering College (Autonomous), Kurnool,Andhra Pradesh-518007,India2
Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering,G. Pulla Reddy Engineering College (Autonomous), Kurnool,Andhra Pradesh-518007,India2
Corresponding Author : Shaik Gulnar
Recieved : 14-February-2025; Revised : 17-March-2026; Accepted : 18-March-2026
Abstract
Several studies have been conducted on replacing ingredients in self-compacting concrete (SCC) with construction and demolition waste; however, only a few materials have proven to be effective replacements. The present study focuses on the use of Aloe vera gel (AG) as a natural admixture that is readily available locally. The rheological, mechanical, and microstructural properties of SCC containing AG (SAG) are examined and compared with those of control SCC. To compensate for the additional water introduced by AG and to reduce the risk of bleeding or segregation, fly ash was incorporated as a partial cement replacement in selected mixes. The test results show that the strength achieved by SAG mixes is comparable to that of the control mix, while the SCC containing 20% fly ash and 2.5% AG exhibits a slight improvement in strength. The microstructural analysis indicates the formation of a dense structure, demonstrating that AG can act as an effective natural admixture in SCC.
Keywords
Self-compacting concrete (SCC), Bio admixtures, Aloe vera gel (AG), Natural admixture, Fly ash, Rheological properties, Microstructural analysis.
Cite this article
Gulnar S, Eswanth P. Mechanical and microstructural properties of self-compacting concrete with Aloe vera gel as a natural admixture. International Journal of Advanced Technology and Engineering Exploration. 2026;13(136):353-365. DOI : 10.19101/IJATEE.2025.121220233
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