Shape assessment in concrete technology by Fourier analysis

Abstract

Particle packing has been recognized to influence mechanical and durability properties of cementitious materials, which are generally favored by optimum packing density. Particle size is a common denominator in such studies. Unfortunately, so far, particle shape has not been extensively and unambiguously evaluated in these approaches. Part of it is definitely due to the interconnected nature of size and shape as well as the missing of a clear methodological framework. Nevertheless, various strategies for assessment of shape are available. Capabilities of available advanced computer-simulation systems render possible considering differently-shaped particles. This will make it possible studying in an economic way the effect of shape on properties of densely packed aggregate or binder particles at low w/c ratios. So, shape assessment is becoming an even more relevant issue in structural studies of concrete. This paper presents a somewhat underrated approach to the assessment of shape of (aggregate) particles, i.e. Fourier analysis. A new shape index is proposed.