The Mechanical Properties of High Strength Concrete in Massive Structures

Abstract

High strength concrete is being used increasingly in mass structure projects. The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of temperature during mixing, placing and curing on the strength development, hydration products and pore structures of high strength concrete in mass structures. The experiments were conducted with two different model walls, viz.: 1.5 m and 0.3 m under typical summer and winter weather conditions. The final part of this study deal with the clarification of the relationship between the long-term strength loss and the microstructure of the high strength concrete at high temperatures. Test results indicated that high elevated temperatures in mass concrete structures significantly accelerate the strength development of concrete at the early ages, while the long-term strength development is decreased. The long-term strength loss is caused by the decomposition of ettringite and increased the total porosity and amount of small pores.