Title: Identifying the Fluid-to-Solid Transition in Cementitious Materials at Early Ages Using Ultrasonic Wave Velocity and Computer Simulation

Author(s): M. Dehadrai, G. Sant, D. Bentz, and J. Weiss

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 259

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 67-76

Keywords: applications; concrete; polymer concrete; polymer-impregnated concrete; polymer-modifi ed concrete; polymers

DOI: 10.14359/56537

Date: 2/1/2009

Abstract:
Assessing the fl uid-to-solid transition in cementitious systems at early-ages is crucial for scheduling construction operations, for determining when laboratory testing can begin, and for assessing when computer simulations of restrained stress development should be initiated. This transition has been traditionally assessed using mechanical penetration techniques (e.g., Vicattest), which, though easy to perform, do not directly relate to the evolution of fundamental material properties or the microstructure. This paper assesses the fl uid-to-solid transition of a cementitious material at early ages using measures that relate to the formation of a solid-skeleton in the material. The increase in the ultrasonic wave velocity is correlated to the percolation of a solid structure that occurs during the fl uid-to-solid transition. Results of computer modeling (using CEMHYD3D) indicate that solidifi cation as determined from the percolation of the solids is similar to experimental observations (Vicat test). It is noted that the rate of change in the pulse velocity is not a rigorousmethod for assessment of the time of solidifi cation, especially in systems containing air. Rather, an increase in the pulse velocity beyond a threshold value appears to be a more appropriate method to assess structure formation. Further, the isothermal calorimetry (heat release) response is observed to not correspond to a fundamental aspect related to solid percolation or structure formation in the material.