Influence of the mineral barite and prickly pear mucilage on the compressive strength of concrete for urban buildings

Campos Luz Pamela G.; Fernández José Carlos R.; Lucano Victor Raul S. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2026) · DOI: 10.18687/laccei2026.1.1.1341

Resumen

This research focused on determining the influence of barite mineral [MB] and prickly pear mucilage [MT] on the compressive strength of concrete (f'c 280 kg/cm2) for urban buildings in Cajamarca. A quantitative approach, a quasi-experimental design, and an explanatory level of analysis were employed. Four mixtures were prepared, consisting of the control mix and mixtures incorporating 3% MB + 0.3% MT, 6% MB + 0.3% MT, and 9% MB + 0.3% MT. The results indicated that the temperature ranged from 22.50 to 23.50 °C; the slump from 3.30 to 3.80 in; and the unit weight from 2220.00 to 2275.00 kg/m3. Based on the compression tests performed at 28 days, compressive strengths of 290.64, 303.86, 336.38, and 345.53 kg/cm2 were obtained for each type of concrete. The optimal combination was identified as 9% MB + 0.3% MT, as it yielded the greatest strength increase of 18.89% compared to the control concrete [CP]. Finally, it was concluded that MB + MT has a positive influence on the compressive strength [RC] of concrete intended for urban buildings, as it increased its strength and allowed it to withstand greater compressive stresses.

Instituciones: Universidad Privada del Norte