PSI - Issue 70

Sreegovind M. et al. / Procedia Structural Integrity 70 (2025) 556–563

558

Table 1. Properties of cement & fine aggregate Physical properties

Cement

Fine aggregate

Specific gravity

3.03

2.62 2.61

Fineness (% residue)

3

Initial setting time (minutes) Final setting time (minutes)

190 324

Table 2. Properties of Expanded vermiculite Material

Properties

Expanded vermiculite

Lightweight mineral Melting point of approx. 1315°C Low density High fire resistance

100 120

0 20 40 60 80

Percentage Passing (%)

0.1

1

10

Sieve size (mm)

vermiculate

fine aggregate

Fig.1. Particle size distribution curve

Fig.2. Expanded vermiculite

2.2 Methods The ongoing study focuses on assessing the mechanical and thermal properties of cement mortar, both with and without expanded vermiculite added. A total of four mixtures were created, including a control mix and three variations that replace fine aggregate with expanded vermiculite at different percentages (5%, 10%, and 15%) by weight. The mortar samples are formulated using a water-to-cement ratio of 0.5. The optimal mix is selected based on the strength and thermal conductivity results. 3. Experimental investigations 3.1 Compressive strength Compressive strength test was conducted following the guidelines of IS 4031-6(1988). This test involves testing cubes of standard dimensions, 70.6mm x 70.6mm x 70.6mm, after 28 days of curing. The mortar specimens are placed