Abstract: This study explores high-performance concrete (HPC) focusing on workability, durability, and strength. A total of 1050 cubes were tested with various curing mediums like fresh water and chlorine to assess the effects of Chikoko, an admixture, on concrete containing uniformly or well-graded sand as fine aggregates. Multiple regression analysis was used to optimize the calcination temperature and admixture concentration of pulverized Chikoko in M25 concrete, with uniformly graded Abraka sand as the fine aggregate. The study found a quadratic relationship between admixture concentration (0–20%), with 10% CPC being the optimal level. The compressive strength of pulverized sand concrete improved significantly at this concentration, nullifying the strength advantage of natural sand over pulverized sand. The study also determined independent variables for optimization, resulting in notable improvements in chloride attack resistance and compressive strength compared to the natural sand control group. The research suggests that CPC-NS concrete meets high-performance concrete standards for strength and durability, while CPC-PS concrete can be used to make standard-strength concrete in areas without well-graded sands.

Keywords: High-performance concrete, Chikoko admixture, durability, compressive strength, chloride attack.

| DOI: 10.17148/IARJSET.2024.11502