EFFECT OF NEEM GUM POWDER ON DURABILITY PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE
This study investigates the influence of neem gum powder (NGP) as a natural admixture on the durability and microstructural properties of grade 20 concrete. The durability of concrete structures in aggressive environments is a persistent challenge in civil engineering, often leading to reduced service life and increased maintenance costs. This research is aimed at enhancing concrete's resistance to chemical attack by introducing neem gum powder as an admisture. Neem gum powder was incorporated into fresh concrete mixes at varying dosages of 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8%, 1.0%, and 1.2% by weight of cement. The methodology included durability evaluation through immersion of concrete cubes in 1% and 5% sulfuric acid (H?SO?) solution for 90 days, and microstructural characterization using visual and microscopic analysis. Results indicated that acid resistance decreased with increasing NGP dosage, with weight loss rising from 15.69% in the control mix to 25.67% at 0.4% NGP addition. However, the microstructure revealed that pore spaces initially decreased with NGP addition, reaching optimal densification at 0.4%, beyond which pore spaces increased. Based on these findings, it is recommended that NGP be used at a dosage not exceeding 0.4% to improve microstructure without compromising durability in acidic environments.
Authors : Aliyu, Y., Sabo, B., Mohammad, B.Y. and Masi, L.T.
Category : Open Access Volume (Issue) : 11(1) Date Uploaded : 7th August 2025