Abstract
Image analysis techniques are gaining popularity in the studies of civil engineering materials. However, the current established image analysis methods often require advanced machinery and strict image acquisition procedures which may be challenging in actual construction practices. In this study, we develop a simplified image analysis technique that uses images with only a digital camera and does not have a strict image acquisition regime. Mortar with 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% pozzolanic material as cement replacement are prepared for the study. The properties of mortar are evaluated with flow table test, compressive strength test, water absorption test, and surface porosity based on the proposed image analysis technique. The experimental results show that mortar specimens with 20% processed spent bleaching earth (PSBE) achieve the highest 28-day compressive strength and lowest water absorption. The quantified image analysis results show accurate representation of mortar quality with 20% PSBE mortar having the lowest porosity. The regression analysis found strong correlations between all experimental data and the compressive strength. Hence, the developed technique is verified to be feasible as supplementary mortar properties for the study of mortar with pozzolanic material.
Highlights
It can be deduced that partial replacement of cement with processed spent bleaching earth (PSBE) decreases the tency of mortar
Water absorption test and surface porosity tests conducted in this study showed a strong correlation with the 28-day compressive strength of mortar
We develop a simplified image analysis methodology for the surface porosity of mortar with pozzolanic material as partial cement replacement
Summary
Synchrotron-based X-ray computed microtomography (XRCT) was used by Promentilla et al [6] who put together 3D models to investigate concrete deterioration In another application, the distribution of fiber in fiber-reinforced concrete was studied using a high-caliber CT scanner [7]. Dogan et al proposed [15] that image processing of concrete could be taken as another non-destructive test similar to ultrasonic pulse velocity and Schmidt hammer to provide additional information for concrete properties prediction This has led to the belief that the surface condition of concrete and mortar may be established as a factor in the study of its physical properties such as compressive strength. The results are quantified and correlated with other mortar properties from the study of mortar with pozzolanic material as partial cement replacement
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