FREEZE-THAW RESISTANCE OF ULTRA-HIGH PERFORMANCE CONCRETE IN NORMAL AND SEVERE CONDITIONS

Author(s): Jeroen, D., Boel, V. and De Schutter, G.
Paper category: Conference
Book title: XIII International Conference on Durability of Building Materials and Components - XIII DBMC
Editor(s): Marco Quattrone, Vanderley M. John
Print ISBN: none
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-149-0
Publication year: 2015
Pages: 174-181
Total Pages: 8
Language: English

Abstract: Ultra-high performance concrete is a new type of cementitious material. The key factors behind its production, are an optimal particle packing, a compatible combination between superplasticizer and binder, and a suitable mixing process. This leads to outstanding mechanical properties compared with vibrated concrete. As a consequence, it can be used in specific applications were a high performance is necessary. However, current test methods to examine the durability of this concrete, are too mild to capture its real potential.

Therefore freeze-thaw cycles were performed according to the Belgian standard NBN B27-009 and also in more severe testing conditions. Here, the lower limits were changed from -15°C to -20°C or -35°C and the upper limits from 15°C to 30°C, 50°C or 90°C. In addition, it was checked whether an air content reduction during the mixing process had an impact on the resistance. The splitting tensile strength was used to monitor the internal failure due to freezethaw cycles. For the normal limits, the specimens did not show a decrease in tensile strength even after 100 cycles. In case of the adapted limits a drop in tensile strength was generally noticed after 32 cycles. Nevertheless, an important residual strength was retained. No difference was found between the performance of specimens made under a lowered air pressure of 50 mbar and those made under atmospheric pressure. In conclusion, ultra-high performance concrete can withstand the freeze-thaw cycles according to NBN B27-009, even if the limits are taken more detrimental.

Online publication: 2015
Publication Type: full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00