Title: The Role of Paste Volume on Performance of Concrete

Author(s): G. Hermida, M. Moranville, and R.J. Flatt

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 261

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 201-214

Keywords: admixtures; cement paste; concrete performance.

DOI: 10.14359/51663211

Date: 10/1/2009

Abstract:
The influence of paste quality [water-cementitious material ratio (w/cm), binder type, admixtures, etc.] on concrete properties has been extensively studied. However, there is only a few data on how the volume fraction of paste in concrete may or may not affect these properties. This paper reviews existing data on this subject. Apart from workability, most engineering properties as well as durability characteristics are not negatively affected by a reduction of the paste volume. Low paste volume concrete therefore represents an interesting option to produce economical concrete, both from ecological and economical point of view. This nevertheless requires compensating the workability loss by proper usage of admixtures. The general advantages and limitations of this approach are discussed.