Title:
Comparative Testing of Portland Cement, Fly Ash, Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag and Silica Fume Concretes for Potential Durability
Author(s):
P. C. Taylor, P. E. Streicher, G. Goch, and L. Fliss
Publication:
Symposium Paper
Volume:
153
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
479-496
Keywords:
blast furnace slag; chlorides; conductivity; diffusivity; fly ash; permeability; silica fume; specifications; tests; Materials Research
DOI:
10.14359/1084
Date:
6/1/1995
Abstract:
A test program was conducted to establish criteria for a performance- based specification of concrete quality, as a opposed to a prescriptive specification, for a major project in South Africa. Concretes containing different combinations of portland cement, fly ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag, and silica fume were prepared over a range of water/binder (W/CM) ratios. The samples were stored in water for three days to simulate the probable effects of site curing practice. Each concrete was then subjected to three different tests: air permeability and water sorptivity, both conducted in an "Autoclam," and a rapid chloride conductivity test. Time constraints prevented the preparation of a performance specification, but the results were used to prescribe a W/CM ratio and binder type. The results of the investigation also provide the basis for future evaluation of the site concrete by conducting similar tests on cores extracted from the structure. It was established that specifying only on the basis of concrete strength is insufficient to insure a high potential durability.