Title: Properties and Microstructure of High-Performance Concretes Containing Silica Fume, Slag and Fly Ash

Author(s): M. Baalbaki, S. L. Sarker, P. C. Aitcin, and H. Isabelle

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 132

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 921-942

Keywords: compressive strength; concretes; fly ash; hydration; microstructure; modulus of elasticity; silica fume; slags; splitting tensile strength; Materials Research

DOI: 10.14359/2250

Date: 5/1/1992

Abstract:
The demand for high-performance concrete is steadily rising in the construction market. Whereas it may not be difficult to attain high compressive strength with these concretes, controlling the rheology in the fresh state can create problems. The composition and properties of several high-performance concretes in their fresh and hardened states, made with reground Type 50 (ASTM Type V) cement of Blaine fineness 650 mý/kg, and silica fume, slag, and fly ash at w/c 0.30 or lower are presented. All these high-performance concretes present long slump retention, combined with high elastic modulus, modulus of rupture, and splitting tensile strength. The actual compressive strength can be as high as 124 to 136 MPa at 1 year. These results are compared with a reference concrete made with the same cement at the same w/c, but without any mineral admixtures. The microstructural characteristics of these concretes at 1 year are described. The correation between the microstructure and the mechanical properties are discussed.