Mechanical properties of reactive powder concrete under distinct curing environment

Abstract

Reactive Powder Concrete (RPC) is composed of fine powders (cement, sand, quartz powder and silica fume), steel fibres (optional) and superplasticizer. This gives good compaction and an impenetrable matrix is achieved, and this strong concentration gives RPC, an ultra-high strength and durability properties. In this research work, focus was aimed to produce reactive powder concrete (RPC) composite material with compression strength up to 100 N/mm2. Components for RPC mixture are carefully selected to achieve optimal mixture. Detailed concrete mix proportions are given in this research paper. Preparation and testing of material were produced in laboratory belonging to the Department of Civil Engineering in SRM Institute of Science and Technology. Casting of concrete cubes and beams was done for both M60 and M100 grades of concrete. This paper investigates mechanical and fresh concrete properties of reactive powder concrete for both the design mix. Laboratory investigations like; Compressive test, split tensile test and flexural strength were conducted to evaluate strength characteristics of RPC, under different curing conditions like oven, steam, and hot water with respect to time factor of T1 (60 min), T2 (61-90 min) and T3 (91-120 min). In every aspect of testing, the steam curing at 100°C shows improved results of 15.71-17.40% in compressive strength, 24.66-25.93% in tensile strength and 20% in flexural strength for both grades of concrete