Title:
Introduction: Understanding Materials Science
Author(s):
Peter C. Taylor and David A. Lange
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
21
Issue:
8
Appears on pages(s):
78
Keywords:
environments; materials science; mix proportioning; physical properties; specifications
DOI:
Date:
8/1/1999
Abstract:
In an age where “high-performance concrete” is common and enormous sums of money are spent on concrete repair, engineers are becoming aware that there is more to concrete than just its 28-day strength. Specifications for concrete are beginning to include requirements covering the ability to resist chemical attack or to survive for a given period in a given environment. Contractors are seeking ways of moving concrete from mixer to final position more efficiently. Models are being developed to predict the performance of different concrete mixture proportions and materials for use in life cycle costing calculations. All of these are driving a need for a more fundamental understanding of concrete as a material.