Compressive strength and microstructural properties of lightweight high-strength cement mortar reinforced with eloxal

Abstract

An investigation was carried out to evaluate the results of the compressive strength of high-strength lightweight eloxal reinforced cement mortar subject to short term loads. An experimental method similar to the one proposed by the author on chilled aluminum–quartz reinforced metal matrix composite was used. Eloxal (in the solid slag form) is a waste obtained during the production of aluminum in the plant. It is mainly of aluminum oxide, SiO 2, CaO, MgO and other substances. It is a hard substance, having sufficient strength with additive properties and bonds very rapidly. Eloxal reinforced cement mortar in the present investigation are tested for its compressive and microstructural behavior. Data were obtained pertaining to compressive strength, role of moisture and drying effects. Deformation under compressive load were studied to provide insight into the internal behavior and failure mechanism of lightweight eloxal reinforced cement mortar. To analyze the mode of failure under compression, distribution of eloxal particles in cement mortar and the deformation behavior, several optical and scanning electron microscope photographs were taken to study the mechanism. Results of the tests of eloxal reinforced cement mortar are compared with unreinforced cement mortar and information obtained else where in earlier tests of normal weight cement mortar. Structural composite materials offer an excellent opportunity to produce components that achieve weight savings and improved properties. The eloxal particles (dispersoid) added to cement mortar in the present investigation is varied from 20 to 40 wt% in steps of 10 wt%. The resulting composite blocks cast were tested for their properties.