Title:
Rheological Evaluation of High Filler – Low Water Ternary Slag Cement Concrete with Low Binder Intensity
Author(s):
Matthew Cruickshank, Erisa Myrtja, Roberta Alfani, Laurent Frouin, Mohend Chaouche
Publication:
Symposium Paper
Volume:
362
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
313-320
Keywords:
binder intensity, clinker replacement, GGBS, high filler low water concrete, limestone filler, lowcarbon concrete, rheology
DOI:
10.14359/51740892
Date:
6/6/2024
Abstract:
An emerging strategy to reduce the concrete industry’s carbon emissions is the use of ternary binders prepared with Portland cement, limestone filler, and supplementary cementitious materials. However, in most cement standards, the limestone content permitted in these ternary binders limits their potential to reduce these emissions. In this study, concrete was prepared with a ternary blended cement containing Portland cement, ground granulated blast furnace slag, and limestone filler at a filler content significantly higher than is currently permitted in EN 197. To achieve the desired mechanical and durability properties when employing a high filler content, a significant reduction in the water-binder ratio is required. Thus, the primary challenge for concrete formulation with such a binder is achieving the required rheological properties at a water content that allows the concrete to meet its strength and durability targets. Here, the rheological properties of a high filler—low water concrete were investigated at the concrete scale via rotational rheometry and compared with a more conventional ready-mix concrete. The results show that it is possible to produce concrete consistent with the workability demands of the ready-mix concrete industry in France with a binder intensity of less than 3.0 (kg/m3)/MPa [0.035 (lbs/yd3)/psi].