The extent of the interfacial transition zone; approach by com-puter simulation

Title: The extent of the interfacial transition zone; approach by com-puter simulation
Author(s): J. Hu, P. Stroeven
Paper category : conference
Book title: International Conference on Advances in Concrete and Structures
Editor(s): Ying-shu Yuan, Surendra P. Shah and Heng-lin Lü
Print-ISBN: 2-912143-41-1
e-ISBN: 2351580176
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2003
Pages: 228 - 235
Total Pages: 8
Nb references: 18
Language: English

Abstract: 
The interfacial transition zone (ITZ) in cementitious systems is a crucial element in me-chanical (strength) as well as in transport systems (durability). Insight into properties and extent are therefore of paramount importance. Experiments have not provided conclusive evidence as to the extent of the ITZ. The present paper approaches this phenomenon by computer simulation. Classical sys-tems based on a sequential random generation procedure of particles yield biased results. Therefore, in this paper use is made of the SPACE system. This relies on a dynamic gen-eration algorithm, reflecting the production conditions of the material. The development of high performance concrete has learned the particle packing phenomenon to be of major importance, since it governs the significant physical contributions to strength. Studying cement particle packing in the ITZ is therefore highly relevant.
Morphological and structural evolutions of the ITZ are quantified on the basis of quan-titative stereology for the fresh state of the material. The results demonstrate that the ITZ's extent depends on technological parameters (water to cement ratio, cement fine-ness), but also on the type of parameter characterizing aspects of material structure. The ITZ has its smallest extent for a parameter defining composition and its largest one for a parameter defining configuration.

Online publication: 2003-08-10
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00