Plastic shrinkage cracking of concrete modified with silica fume and metakaolin

Title: Plastic shrinkage cracking of concrete modified with silica fume and metakaolin
Author(s): Shashi S. Marikunte, Akhil S. Hiranya, Nicole Darling
Paper category : conference
Book title: International RILEM Symposium on Concrete Science and Engineering: A Tribute to Arnon Bentur
Editor(s): J. Weiss, K. Kovler, J. Marchand, and S. Mindess
Print-ISBN: None
e-ISBN: 2912143926
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2004
Nb references: 10
Language: English

Abstract: Plastic shrinkage cracking is a common concern in concrete flatwork. These surface cracks may develop into full depth cracks, affecting the strength of concrete. Also, cracks on the surface are not aesthetically pleasing, especially for architectural use. White Portland cements are commonly used for architectural use when genuine white concrete is desired or as base cement when colors are desired. The results of a comprehensive investigation to characterize the early age cracking behavior of concrete with white Portland cement are presented. White Portland cement binder was partially substituted with pozzolanic admixtures such as, metakaolin or silica fume. While silica fume is commonly used in the production of high strength concrete, metakaolin has been successfully used to improve the durability and ductility of glass fiber reinforced cement composite. The white Portland cement binder was partially replaced with metakaolin or silica fume by 5, 10 and 15 percent by weight. The water-to-cement ratio was kept constant at 0.45. A new generation high-range water-reducing admixture was used as required to achieve a consistent mix. In addition to plastic shrinkage cracking, free shrinkage behavior of concrete was also characterized. This paper presents the mechanism of plastic shrinkage cracking, as well as the effect of partial substitution of white Portland cement with metakaolin or silica fume .

Online publication: 2004-03-25
Classification: Plastic Shrinkage
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00
doi: 10.1617/2912143926.003