Study of the substitution of limestone filler with pozzolanic additives in mortars

Abstract

In this work several specimens of mortars were prepared with the addition of 5% fly ash and 5% perlite and their mechanical properties and porosity were tested and compared to those of mortars with no additives (reference sample). Specifically, it was studied the influence that these additives have on the elastic modulus and porosity of the mortars. After conducting chemical, mineralogical and granulometric analysis of additives, a series of measurements were made in fresh and hardened mortars. In fresh mortars, measurements were conducted according to the EN1015-2/3/8 Standards concerning flow value, wet bulk density, air content, water demand and water retention. In hardened mortars, the measurements were made in the age of 28 days. The rate of carbonation and the formation of hydraulic phases were investigated using XRD, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermal analysis (DTA–TGA). Porosity and pore size distribution of mortars were investigated by mercury intrusion porosimetry. Compressive and bending strength and adhesion were measured according to the EN1015-11/12 Standards. Finally, the Young’s elastic modulus was measured in cylindrical specimens sized 50/100 mm (diameter/height) according to ASTM C469-02 Standard. The results of the present study indicated a differentiation in the microstructure of the mortars that can be contributed to the use of different additives, such as fly ash and perlite. The three materials proved to be compatible in their mechanical behavior and appropriate for construction use. The modulus of elasticity value is related to the ratio of compressive to flexural strength and in particular, with the increase of the value of the ratio, the value of the Young’s modulus of elasticity increases. The development of the microstructure represents a major parameter to improve existing mortars and to formulate new mortars.