Exploring Design Optimization of Self-Compacting Mortars with Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

The ever-evolving construction sector demands technological developments to provide consumers with products that meet stringent technical, environmental, and economic requirements. Self-compacting cementitious mixtures have garnered significance in the construction market due to their enhanced compaction, workability, fluidity, and mechanical properties. This study aimed to harness the potential of statistical response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize the fresh properties and strength development of self-compacting mortars. A self-compacting mortar repository was used to build meaningful and robust models describing D-Flow and T-Funnel results, as well as the compressive strength development after 24 h (CS24h) and 28 days (CS28d) of curing. The quantitative input factors considered were A (water/cement), B (superplasticizer/powder), C (water/powder), and D (sand/mortar), and the output variables were Y1 (D-Flow), Y2 (T-Funnel), Y3 (CS24h), and Y4 (CS28d). The results found adjusted response models, with significant R2 values of 87.4% for the D-Flow, 93.3% for the T-Funnel, and 79.1% for the CS24h. However, for the CS28d model, a low R2 of 39.9% was found. Variable A had the greatest influence on the response models. The best correlations found were between inputs A and C and outputs Y1 and Y2, as well as input factors A and D for responses Y3 and Y4. The resulting model was enhanced, thereby resulting in a global desirability of approximately 60%, which showcases the potential for the further refinement and optimization of RSM models applied to self-compacting mortars.