Title: Using Particle Packing and Statistical Approach to Optimize Eco-Efficient Ultra-High-Performance Concrete

Author(s): Nancy A. Soliman and Arezki Tagnit-Hamou

Publication: Materials Journal

Volume: 114

Issue: 6

Appears on pages(s): 847-858

Keywords: design; packing density; statistical design approach; ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC)

DOI: 10.14359/51701001

Date: 11/1/2017

Abstract:
Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is characterized by a dense microstructure that yields ultra-high strength and durability properties. This paper presents an innovative method to produce eco-efficient mixtures of UHPC using locally available materials based on optimization using the packing density and a statistical mixture design approach. The results showed an optimal packing density of 0.79% for a combination of all granular materials (quartz sand, quartz powder, cement, and silica fume). The study presents experimentally based models with high coefficients of correlation in predicting the workability and strength of UHPC as a function of mixture design parameters (water-binder ratio [w/b] and highrange water-reducing admixture [HRWRA] dosage). Contour diagrams to facilitate the use of the models were established. In this research, UHPC mixtures with a slump flow between 130 and 300 mm (5.1 and 11.8 in.) and compressive strength between 135 and 225 MPa (19.6 and 32.6 ksi) were produced; such concretes are required for different industrial applications.