Modelling the diffusivity of mortar and concrete using a three-dimensional mesostructure with several aggregate shapes

Abstract

This paper presents a numerical investigation into the effect of ITZ and aggregate shape on the diffusivity of mortar and concrete using a three-dimensional model. Concrete is treated as a three-phase composite consisting of aggregate particles, bulk cement paste and aggregate–paste interface, i.e. the ‘interfacial transition zone’ (ITZ). The model is set up in two stages. First, a three-dimensional representative volume element of the concrete mesostructure is generated. Then, a finite difference method is used to simulate molecular diffusion through the mesostructure. The transport properties of the conductive phases (bulk cement paste and ITZ) are determined based on the water/cement ratio, degree of hydration and porosity gradients away from aggregate particles. The model is validated against available experimental data and compared with analytical relationships for ideal cases. The model is then used to study the effect of aggregate shape on diffusivity, which has not been attempted before in three-dimensions. The model is also applied to assess the effects of water/cement ratio, degree of hydration, aggregate size, volume fraction, shape and orientation, ITZ width and percolation on diffusivity. Some of these effects are impractical to quantify from laboratory experimentation alone. It was found that the shape and orientation of aggregate particles have a significant effect on diffusivity. Diffusivity decreased when spherical aggregate particles are replaced with ellipsoidal particles due to the consequent increase in tortuosity of the cement paste.