Title: Maximum Aggregate Size Effect on Frost Resistance of Concrete

Author(s): Cameron MacInnis and Eddie C. Lau

Publication: Journal Proceedings

Volume: 68

Issue: 2

Appears on pages(s): 144-149

Keywords: aggregate size;aggregates;air-entrained concretes;concrete durablity; concretes; exposure;freeze-thaw durablity;freezing;research;saturation;volume change;water-cement ratio.

DOI: 10.14359/11301

Date: 2/1/1971

Abstract:
A one-cycle freezing test was used to demonstrate the effect of maximum size of aggregate on the frost resistance of concrete at a variety of water-cement ratios and degrees of saturation. After being cured for a period of at least 1 month the 3 x 6 in. concrete specimens were conditioned to various degrees of saturation, to simulate different exposure conditions. Frost susceptablity of various specimens was determined from the length change patterns produced in the freezing test. Maximum size of aggregate was shown to have a great effect on frost resistance. For example, the 1/4 in. maximum aggregate size specimens showed expansions during freezing, only when the water-cement ratio was as high as 0.60, while 3/4 in. maximum aggregate specimens showed expansions at a water-cement ratio as low as 0.45.