The influence of the temperature on the hydration behavior and hardening process of PCC

Abstract

AbstractPCC exhibit improved durability, chemical resistance and adhesion strength compared to unmodified variants. Commonly, the modifiers consist of thermoplastics. Despite the distinct temperature‐dependent behavior of these polymers, the properties of PCC were barely investigated within different temperatures. To make statements about the effect of different temperatures on the hardening process and therewith on the load bearing and deformation behavior of PCC, the properties of the materials have to be experimentally assessed at a defined temperature range. Accordingly, the degree of hydration, the structure development, the compressive and flexural strength as well as dynamic and static modulus of elasticity of different PCC were characterized while the samples were exposed to service temperatures of ‐20 °C, 20 °C, and 60 °C. After the specimens were thermally conditioned, the samples were tested in the proposed temperature scope. The results reveal influential changes in all tested attributes for the PCC within the applied service temperature range compared to a reference. This knowledge is essential to further investigate the temperature impact on the material and develop appropriate prediction models for the application of PCC and the integration in guidelines.