Cementitious Materials Research Articles

Enhancing anti-carbonation properties of oil well cement slurry through nanoparticle and cellulose fiber synergy

The anti-carbonation property of oil well cement (OWC) is critical for sealing efficiency of wellbores under geological CO2 sequestration. However, gas migration through OWC around wellbores may lead to a deterioration and failure of the entire storage system. Developing carbon-resistant cement has been the emerging trend in the research community. Previous studies mainly focused on nanoparticles alone to enhance performance of OWC, and the purpose of the research is to explore the synergy of nanoparticles and cellulose fiber (CF) in enhancing engineering properties (e.g., carbonation resistance) of oil well cement slurry. The focus was on investigating compressive strength, permeability, pore structure, and carbonation depth associated with the micro-level texture in a CO2 corrosion environment using X-ray diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis methods. Four nanoparticles, namely, nano-SiO2 (NS), nano-TiO2 (NT), nano-Al2O3 (NA), and nano-CaCO3 (NC), were selected for the mixture design. Results indicated that the incorporation of 1∼2 % NPs into the OWC paste resulted in a notable decrease in portlandite and an increase in calcium silicate hydrates, thereby enhancing compressive strength and hydration process. In addition, the single admixture of CF could minimize the formation of cracks in the cement matrix and reduce the average carbonation depth by 54 %. More importantly, the synergy of CF and NP significantly improved the resistance of OWC to carbonation, and the OWC mixed with CF and NS displayed the highest carbonation resistance.

Carbonation and chloride penetration performance of self-compacting concrete with masonry and concrete wastes

In this research, masonry and concrete construction and demolition wastes (CDWs) were used as supplementary cementitious material (25% vol. residue of masonry, RM) and recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) in increasing levels (0%, 50% and 100% vol. residue of concrete), respectively, in the development of self-compacting concrete (SCC). The performance of SCC mixtures was evaluated in terms of fresh properties, compressive strength, resistance to both accelerated (1% CO2, 65% R.H. and 23 °C temperature) and natural carbonation as well as chloride penetration. Experimental results showed a monotonic workability reduction associated to the incorporation of increasing levels of RCA. In compressive strength, the SCC with RCA showed the greatest increase in this mechanical property after 28 days of accelerated exposure in the carbonation chamber, when compared to its water-cured counterpart. Yet, at 360 days of accelerated carbonation exposure, all SCCs showed compressive strength reductions compared to their water-cured counterparts. On the other hand, the chloride permeability resistance of the SCCs was low and very low at the ages evaluated. Thus, the findings of this study indicate that the use of CDW can generate SCCs with adequate fresh properties, compressive strength and carbonation and chloride penetration performance, which offers benefits for the environment.

Sustainable quaternary binders made from metallurgical wastes of northeast Mexico: strength, hydration products, and durability.

In this research, four industrial wastes were used for up to 80% as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) in cement mortar systems: ground granulated blast furnace slag, electric arc furnace slag, basic oxygen furnace slag, and waste limestone powder. Quaternary cementitious blends were prepared and studied for up to 120days. Workability, compressive strength, durability, microstructures, and sustainability studies were performed and compared with Portland cement references. Results showed that more than 30MPa in compressive strength can be achieved by > 50% replacement with SCMs; only 9% below the reference. Neither H2SO4 nor MgSO4 attacks resulted in critical damages; nevertheless, curing under NaCl solution showed detrimental behavior. C-S-H with a low Ca/Si ratio was identified in the mortars as the main hydration product, possibly intermixed with stratlingite, C-A-S-H and/or hydrotalcite. Environmental impact for the blended cements was determined as the CO2eq. factor from a simple life cycle assessment. The embodied greenhouse gasses varied in 260.2-541.4kg CO2eq./ton of binder depending on the formulation. This was 40-70% less than Portland cement (922.6kg CO2eq./ton). The production of the raw materials dominated the polluting emissions, while freight, grinding, and sieving had little environmental impact.

Hydration mechanism of alkali-activated cementitious materials entirely prepared by solid wastes

This study explores the hydration mechanisms and mechanical performance of alkali-activated cementitious materials made entirely from industrial solid waste, specifically fly ash and blast furnace slag. With increasing demand for sustainable construction solutions, these materials are alternatives to traditional cement. However, despite recent advancements, challenges remain in optimizing their hydration processes and enhancing material performance. Using 6.45 %NaOH as the base activator, the Si−O and Al−O bond vibrations were significantly stronger at 28 and 90 days of hydration compared to 5.13 %Na2CO3 and 20 % CCS, with the Si−O vibration peaks shifting from 459 cm−1 to 451 cm−1, suggesting that the solvation and aggregation of silicates and aluminates were enhanced, producing more C−S−H and N(C)−S−H gels. The compressive strength of NaOH reached 29.76 MPa at 28 days and 52.30 MPa at 90 days as compared to the compressive strengths of 29.12 MPa and 11.6two MPa for Na2CO3 and CCS, respectively. Scanning electron microscope scans showed that the microstructure of NaOH was denser, which allowed for a rapid stimulation of the raw material activity. After 25 freeze-thaw cycles, the loss of strength was less than 1.46 %, and the mass loss was less than 0.41 %, showing excellent durability. Corrosion resistance is also high, with coefficients of 143.54 % and 119.96 % in NaOH and Na2SO4 environments, respectively. This study optimized the alkali activator ratio in alkali-activated cementitious materials made from solid waste, enhancing freeze-thaw stability, corrosion resistance, and mechanical properties by promoting the formation of C−S−H and N(C)−S−H gels. Using sodium carbonate, sodium hydroxide, and calcium carbide slag as activators accelerated hydration and reduced hardening time, offering a theoretical and technological foundation for green, sustainable construction materials.

Valorisation of Aggregate-Washing Sludges in Innovative Applications in Construction.

The valorisation of sludges from aggregate production into construction materials is required for full circularity in mining waste management. This study explores valorisation pathways, relevant regulatory frameworks, and End-of-Waste (EoW) criteria for specific settings in Spain and Norway. The explored valorisation routes involved the production of filler, supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), and lightweight aggregates (LWAs) for the production of cement-based products, and precursors for 3D printed construction material. The sludge from Norway revealed a non-polluted stream and a stream contaminated with organic phases and clays. Sludge-based filler proved suitable in concrete production with contents of up to 40% of total binder, providing adequate consistency and cohesion. However, clays in the sludge increased the demand for water and superplasticizer. Clay contents were still insufficient for the applications as SCMs, as the calcined sludge demonstrated limited reactivity. The application to produce LWAs was promising, but further microstructure optimization is still required. The clay content was also relevant for the sludge from the site in Spain, as it provided 3D printing mixes with good plasticity. The dosage optimization still required the addition of enzymes, limestone, and natural fibres to improve cohesion, workability, and resistance to the cracking of the 3D printing mix.

3D mesoscale model of steel fiber reinforced concrete based on equivalent failure of steel fibers

Steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) is widely used in civil engineering. Investigating the mechanical properties and failure mechanisms of SFRC materials using mesoscopic models holds significant theoretical and practical importance. The bond-slip interaction between steel fibers and the cementitious matrix is crucial, yet current computational capabilities struggle to simulate the interactions among the numerous components within concrete containing a large number of steel fibers. This paper establishes an equivalent failure model to replace the bond-slip interaction. Based on this model, a multiphase mesoscopic model (including aggregates, the interfacial transition zone (ITZ), mortar, and steel fibers) is developed to predict the mechanical properties and failure modes of SFRC. The accuracy and validity of the model are verified by comparing the simulation results with the experimental results from four-point bending tests on SFRC beams, focusing on load-displacement curves, failure modes, and crack propagation. The results indicate that under load, the ITZ at the sharp edges of large aggregates in the SFRC beam is the first to be damaged, forming microcracks. Subsequently, these cracks bypass the large particles and propagate towards weaker regions with fewer steel fibers, forming macrocracks. At this stage, the steel fibers take over the load from the cementitious matrix and limit crack propagation. The simulated crack propagation trend and crack width during the loading process of the SFRC multiphase mesoscale model match well with the experimental observations. A higher fiber content can mitigate stress concentration within SFRC beams and enhance the fiber bridging effect, significantly improving the flexural load-bearing capacity and toughness of the beams. A smaller steel fiber inclination angle can effectively inhibit the propagation of vertical cracks, thereby increasing the load-bearing capacity and toughness of SFRC beams and extending the service life of the structure.

Rapid and long-lasting bedrock flow-path sealing by a ‘concretion-forming resin’: results from in situ evaluation tests in an underground research laboratory, Horonobe, Japan

A capability to permanently seal fluid flow paths in bedrock, such as natural faults/fractures, and damaged zones around boreholes/excavations, is needed to ensure the long-term safety and effectiveness of many underground activities. Cementitious materials are commonly used as seals, but these materials unavoidably undergo physical and chemical degradation, therefore potentially decreasing seal durability. To solve these problems, a more durable sealing method using ‘concretion-forming resin’ has been developed by learning from natural calcite (CaCO 3 ) concretion formation. The sealing capability of resin was tested by in situ experiments on bedrock flow paths in an underground research laboratory (URL), Hokkaido, Japan. The results showed a rapid decrease in the permeability down to 0.1% of the initial permeability owing to calcite precipitation over a period of 1 year. During the experiment, inland earthquakes occurred with foci below the URL (depths of 2–7 km and maximum magnitude of 5.4). As a result of the earthquakes, the hydraulic conductivities of the flow paths sealed initially by ‘concretion-forming resin’ increased. However, these flow paths subsequently resealed rapidly and within a few months recovered the same hydraulic conductivities as before the earthquakes. This new technique for rapidly producing long-lasting seals against fluid flow through rocks will be applicable to many kinds of underground activities.

Turning waste concrete powder into high calcium alkali-activated cementitious materials and artificial aggregates

In order to handle the environmental pollution caused by waste concrete powder, recycled concrete powder (RCP) is utilized to prepare high calcium alkali-activated cementitious materials and artificial aggregates. This study first investigates the high calcium alkali-activated cementitious materials, exploring the effects of different mineral admixtures, liquid-to-solid ratios (L/S), RCP/slag, Na2SiO3 modulus, and Na2O content. The results illustrate that slag powder is the best mineral admixture and the most critical factor affecting cementitious materials. Increasing the slag dosage enhances the generation of C-(A)-S-H, improves the microstructure, and increases compressive strength, with a maximum compressive strength reaching 68.42 MPa. According to these test results, the impact of various factors on RCP aggregates is further explored. The results illustrate that the L/S and slag content are primary factors influencing particle size distribution and strength. Increasing these factors leads to larger aggregate particle sizes and higher strength. The compressive strength of the aggregates at 7d reaches 93.24–-99.5 % of that at 28d, with a maximum strength of 8.2 MPa. Additionally, slag content (10–30 %) and Na2O content significantly impact the physical properties of aggregates, improving apparent density and bulk density while reducing water absorption. To verify the applicability of RCP aggregates, they were used in concrete, and the effects of aggregate strength and replacement rate on concrete performance were explored. The results display that as aggregate strength rises, the mechanical properties of the concrete improve. When RCP aggregates are incorporated, the mechanical properties of the natural concrete decline only slightly (<16.70 %). The probability of aggregate damage increases with decreased RCP aggregate strength or increased RCP aggregate content under pressure. RCP aggregate concrete exhibits better shrinkage resistance compared to natural concrete. The process of utilizing RCP is low-energy, non-polluting, and results in high-performance products, making the large-scale effective utilization of RCP feasible.

Development of engineered polymeric reinforced cementitious composite (EPRC) using nature-inspired hollow architectures: Flexural experimental and numerical evaluations

This study explores the integration of nature-inspired architectural designs into Mechanics of Materials (MoM)-based reinforcement layouts for reinforced cementitious composites (RCs). While traditional MoM layouts focus on longitudinal rebars for tensile strength, this study aims to enhance the flexural properties of RCs by incorporating nature-inspired elements like hollow tubes found in plant stems. The research utilizes both experimental and numerical methods to evaluate the flexural performance of engineered polymeric reinforced cementitious composites (EPRCs) with integrated nature-inspired motifs. A numerical model, based on the material properties of reinforcing elements and the cementitious matrix, was developed to simulate the flexural performance of EPRCs reinforced with both solid and hollow bars, including MoM-based solid and hollow rebars. The model's predictions were validated through experimental testing of 3D-printed MoM-based solid and hollow rebars under three-point bending conditions. The results demonstrated that EPRCs reinforced with hollow rebars exhibited significantly improved flexural properties compared to those with solid rebars. Specifically, the hollow-reinforced samples achieved an average modulus of rupture of 8.68 MPa, toughness of 11.76 N m, and mid-point deflection of 1.99 mm, representing increases of 34 %, 55 %, and 93 %, respectively, over their solid counterparts. These enhancements are attributed to improved shear reinforcement and bond strength despite the reduced moment of inertia of the hollow rebars. The study provides valuable insights for optimizing the mechanical properties of RCs in civil engineering applications through the incorporation of nature-inspired architectural designs.

Mechanical properties and global warming potential predictions for high-performance concrete through machine learning models integrated with meta-heuristic algorithms

Recent developments in high-performance concrete (HPC) have made it a high-tech material with enhanced durability and properties, and it is a more ecological material with a longer life cycle. Conventional approaches to assessing HPC properties and environmental effects may lack precision in predicting the effects of additional cementitious materials. Adaptive Boosting Algorithm (ADA) and Stochastic Gradient Boosting (SGB) have emerged as promising approaches for predicting HPC properties and environmental effects, offering more accurate and efficient alternative methods. In this study, the ADA and SBG models have been employed to predict the two essential HPC mechanical properties, including compressive and tensile strengths (CS and TS) and Global Warming Potential (GWP) by coupling with meta-heuristic algorithms, namely Stadium Spectators Optimizer (SSO), Golden Jackal Algorithm (GJA), Brown-bear Optimization Algorithm (BOA), and Golf Optimization Algorithm (GOA)‎ for developing hybrid and ensemble prediction approaches. The study assessed the effectiveness of different models for predicting HPC properties and GWP by employing various metrics. The SGSBGG framework showcased remarkable precision and performance compared to other models in the prediction of CS, TS, and GWP. It outshone its counterparts by achieving the highest prediction accuracy, securing R2 values of 0.994, 0.994, and 0.995 for CS, TS, and GWP predictions, respectively. Additionally, it demonstrated unparalleled accuracy with the lowest modeling errors, registering an RMSE of 1.306 for CS, 0.097 for TS, and 4.469 for GWP. Despite the clear superiority of the SGSBGG model, it is noteworthy that the SGSO, as a hybrid model, delivered notably compatible results.

Effect of pore structure characteristics on the properties of red mud-based alkali-activated cementitious materials

This study used a mercury intrusion porosimeter (MIP) to establish a Menger sponge model and a thermodynamic fractal model to investigate the influence mechanism of changes in the pore structure of red mud-based alkali-activated cementitious materials under different Na2O contents on their mechanical properties and volume stability. The results indicate that the thermodynamic fractal model can better reflect the pore size distribution within the entire pore size measurement range, with a correlation coefficient R 2 maintained between 0.98347 and 0.99854. Moreover, the thermodynamic fractal model can well reflect the relationship between the pore structure characteristics of the matrix and its macroscopic properties, with the increase of Na2O content, the N-(C)-A-S-H gel content continuously increased, and the pore fractal dimension increased from 2.42609 to 2.72440, indicating a denser pore structure, which promoted the improvement of compressive and flexural strength of the matrix at 28 days while deteriorating volume stability.

Analysis of thixotropy of cement grout based on a virtual bond model

Thixotropy of cementitious materials is a crucial intrinsic property that determines the flowability and workability of cement-based grout. A novel virtual bond model of cement particles is developed in this paper to depict the thixotropy of cement grout. A particulate description of the reversible and erasable interparticle bonds is established based on experimental observations with a focus on the non-contact interactions mainly contributed in practice by calcium silicate hydrates (C–S–H). The structural breakdown of the cement network is realized through bonds breakage under applied motion, and the bonding network recovers with regeneration of interparticle connections that involve reversible hydrate reactions in the mixture. The balance between bond rupture and rebuilding can be tuned by assigning different strength limits for bond breakage. We have implemented this model in the open-source code Yade to carry out 3D discrete element method simulations of a rotational vane system filled with spherical particles, and the results show good agreement with experimental data. The modelling results reveal the transition from a solid-like structure to a fluid-like medium within cement suspensions caused by the evolution of broken interparticle bonds. The results also provide a distinct view of thixotropic variation upon disturbance. This model is extendable to other cohesive materials providing an explicit physical definition of the interparticle interactions. It also provides a theoretical explanation for the empirical estimations of thixotropy common in engineering industries and a potential means of measuring cementitious granular flow that may be useful in future studies.

An Overview of Strengthening Concrete Members with Textile Reinforced Mortar

Textile-reinforced mortar (TRM) or fabric-reinforced concrete has a wide range of applications, including repair work, structural strengthening, ditch lining, erosion control, pipe protection, trackways, flood defenses, roofing, and emergency helicopter landing pads. This paper focuses specifically on structural strengthening, particularly shear strengthening and jacketing. According to the findings, among the materials considered, benzobisoxazole (PBO) proves to be the most effective, enhancing the shear capacity of the members by 43.3%, followed by carbon, basalt, and glass fibers. When using fixed materials for strengthening, a U-shaped configuration is more effective than an S-shaped one, increasing shear capacity by 131% compared to 71% for the S-shape. The results also show that increasing the number of textile layers during the strengthening process boosts the shear capacity of the element. Applying the textile layers directly in a straight pattern provides higher capacity than a spiral application. Furthermore, using epoxy resin as a mortar for TRM results in a greater load capacity for column strengthening. A column strengthened with two layers of textiles had more capacity than one with just a single layer. Additionally, when the mortar contains a cementitious material modified with polymer, the flexural capacity is 5.3% higher than that of textiles using cement alone as the mortar.

Mechanical properties and durability of lightweight cenosphere cementitious composites under coupling effect of dry-wet cycles and salt erosion

Cenospheres are suitable as supplementary cementitious materials to partially replace cement in the production of environmentally friendly lightweight cenosphere cementitious composites (LCCC). In this study, the correlation between the content and particle size of the cenosphere, the early curing system and the performance of LCCC was analyzed. The macroscopic properties and microstructural changes of LCCC under the conditions of dry-wet cycles and salt erosion were studied with different early curing conditions. The durability changes of LCCC mortar under the coupling effect of salt erosion and dry-wet cycles were studied by examining the mass loss rate, relative dynamic modulus of elasticity and salt corrosion resistance coefficient of LCCC mortar. Finally, a comparative analysis of the impact of existing cracks on the performance of LCCC under the coupling effect of dry-wet and salt erosion was conducted. The main innovation of the study includes the mechanical properties and durability of LCCC under dry-wet-salt erosion conditions, as well as the clarification of the impact of prefabricated cracks on the mechanical properties and durability of LCCC. It is found that the flexural strength and the compressive strength of specimens cured at high temperature is generally lower than that of the specimens cured under normal temperature conditions. The wet-dry salt corrosion can exacerbate the erosion the outer shell and inner wall of cenospheres and disrupt the stability of the internal interface transition zone (ITZ) in LCCC. LCCC with CsS exhibits better macroscopic performance and microstructural properties. Pre-existing cracks accelerates the erosion in the cenosphere shell and inner wall under salt solution.

Synergistic enhancement of g-C3N4/CoAl-LDH nanoflower and mineral admixtures on the properties of nano-engineered cementitious composites

The nano-engineered cementitious composites (NCC) were prepared using g-C3N4/CoAl-LDH nanoflower (nano-CN/L), in combination with mineral admixtures including fly ash (FA), metakaolin (MK), and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS). The synergistic effects and mechanisms of nano-CN/L and mineral admixtures on the mechanical, chloride penetration resistance and air purification properties of NCC were investigated. The results show that nano-CN/L promotes the early hydration of cementitious materials and improves the composition and morphology of C-S-H gel. Furthermore, the filling effect of nano-CN/L significantly optimizes the pore structure and interfacial crack width of NCC, thereby eliminating the adverse impact of FA, MK, and GGBFS on its early mechanical strengths. Additionally, nano-CN/L enhances the chloride penetration resistance and NOx removal properties of NCC through its strong ion adsorption and photocatalytic activity, respectively. Incorporating 0.9 % nano-CN/L by mass of cementitious materials reduces the chloride diffusion coefficient of NCC at curing age of 56d by 26.9 % and increases the NOx removal ratio by 11 times. The 7d’s compressive and flexural strengths of NCC increase by 13.6 % and 4.6 %, respectively, compared to the one without nano-CN/L. As a novel multifunctional nanomaterial, nano-CN/L not only provides a new pathway for extending the service life of cementitious composites, but also injects new momentum into their environmental-friendly development.

High-volume recycled glass cementitious and geopolymer composites incorporating graphene oxide

This study presents the development of high-volume recycled glass construction materials using recycled glass aggregate (RGA) as a 100 % sand replacement, recycled glass powder (RGP) as 40 wt% of the binder, and 0.1 wt% graphene oxide (GO) as nano-reinforcement. The research investigates the individual and their combined effects on the engineering performance, reaction kinetics (using calorimetry, X-ray diffraction-XRD, Fourier Transform Infrared-FTIR and Thermogravimetric analysis-TGA), and microstructure (Scanning Electron Microscopy/ Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy-SEM/EDS) for both cementitious and geopolymer systems. The results indicate that while RGA reduces strength and exacerbates alkali-silica reaction (ASR), the presence of 40 wt% RGP significantly mitigates ASR despite a lower strength gain in both systems. Geopolymers exhibit significantly lower ASR expansion compared to cementitious matrices owing to their superior alkali-binding capacity and denser microstructure, which restricts water and alkali ion mobility. 0.1 wt% GO was found to accelerate geopolymerisation, enhancing the strength of geopolymer mixes, but it decreased compressive strength in cement-based mixes due to self-desiccation-induced micro-cracking under ambient curing condition. The study also highlights that cement and metasilicate, as well as slag, are the main contributors to cost and CO2 emissions in cementitious and geopolymer systems, respectively. Overall, geopolymers exhibit a significantly lower global warming potential (< 180 kg CO2-eq/m3) compared to cement-based mixes (> 365 kg CO2-eq/m3) with a comparable cost (190–230 AUD/m3). The results indicate the potential for sustainable construction applications using high volumes of recycled glass, incorporating over 70 % of the mixture by weight.

Evaluation on Preparation and Performance of a Low-Carbon Alkali-Activated Recycled Concrete under Different Cementitious Material Systems.

A green, low-carbon concrete is a top way to recycle waste in construction. This study uses industrial solid waste slag powder (S95) and fly ash (FA) as binders to completely replace cement. This study used recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) instead of natural coarse aggregate (NCA). This is to prepare alkali-activated recycled concrete (AARC) with different cementitious material systems. Alkali-activated concrete (AAC) mixtures are modified for strength and performance based on the mechanical qualities and durability of AARC. Also, the time-varying effects of the environment on AARC properties are explored. The results show that with the performance enhancement of RCA, the mechanical performance of AARC is significantly improved. As RCA's quality improves, so does AARC's compressive strength. At a cementitious material content of 550 kg/m3, AARC's 28d compressive strengths using I-, II-, and III-class RCA were reduced by 2.2%, 12.7%, and 21.8%, respectively. I-class AARC has characteristics similar to natural aggregate concrete (NAC) in terms of shrinkage, resistance to chloride penetration, carbonization, and frost resistance. AARC is a new type of green building material that uses industrial solid waste to prepare alkali-activated cementitious materials. It can effectively reduce the amount of cement and alleviate energy consumption. This is conducive to the reuse of resources, environmental protection, and sustainable development.

Flexural and pseudo‐ductile behavior of e‐glass uniaxial and biaxial fabric‐reinforced cementitious matrix: Experimental study and simulation

Flexural and pseudo‐ductile behavior of e‐glass uniaxial and biaxial fabric‐reinforced cementitious matrix: Experimental study and simulation

Enhanced pozzolanic reactivity in hydrogen-form zeolites as supplementary cementitious materials

Pozzolans rich in silica and alumina react with lime to form cementing compounds and are incorporated into portland cement as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). However, pozzolanic reactions progress slower than portland cement hydration, limiting their use in modern construction due to insufficient early-age strength. Hence, alternative SCMs that enable faster pozzolanic reactions are necessary including synthetic zeolites, which have high surface areas and compositional purity that indicate the possibility of rapid pozzolanic reactivity. Synthetic zeolites with varying cation composition (Na-zeolite, H-zeolite), SiO2/Al2O3 ratio, and framework type were evaluated for pozzolanic reactivity via Ca(OH)2 consumption using ion exchange and in-situ X-ray diffraction experiments. Na-zeolites exhibited limited exchange reactions with KOH and Ca(OH)2 due to the occupancy of acid sites by Na+ and hydroxyl groups. Meanwhile, H-zeolites readily adsorbed K+ and Ca2+ from a hydroxide solution by exchanging cations with H+ at Brønsted acid sites or cation adsorption at vacant acid sites. By adsorbing cations, the H-zeolite reduced the pH and increased Ca2+ solubility to promote pozzolanic reactions in a system where Ca(OH)2 dissolution/diffusion was a rate limiting factor. High H-zeolite reactivity resulted in 0.8 g of Ca(OH)2 consumed per 1 g of zeolites after 16 h of reaction versus 0.4 g of Ca(OH)2 consumed per 1 g of Na-zeolite. The H-zeolite modulated the pore fluid alkalinity and created a low-density amorphous silicate phase via mechanisms analogous to two-step C-S-H nucleation experiments. Controlling these reaction mechanisms is key to developing next generation pozzolanic cementitious systems with comparable hydration rates to portland cement.

Experimental and simulation study on seismic performance of seawater sea-sand PVA cementitious composite columns with GFRP bars

The seismic properties of seven seawater sea-sand (SWSS) PVA cementitious composite columns with Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) bars were studied. The effects of four parameters, namely polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fiber content, axial compression ratio, cementitious composite strength and stirrup spacing, on the seismic performance of composite columns were analyzed. The failure of the specimen was observed, and the hysteresis curve, skeleton curve, stiffness degradation, energy dissipation capacity, ductility and strain of the specimen were analyzed. The test results show that the large chip-based spalling will occur when the specimen without fiber incorporation is damaged, and the incorporation of PVA fiber, the reduction of stirrup spacing and the reduction of axial compression ratio will delay the rate of crack formation and development. In addition, through cross-section analysis and considering the reinforcement effect of PVA fibers, a proposed formula for calculating the horizontal bearing capacity of composite columns is proposed. Finally, the finite element model of SWSS PVA cementitious composite columns with GFRP bars is established, and it is found that increasing the strength grade of cementitious materials can greatly improve the seismic performance of composite columns. The conclusions could be references for the engineering application. In the context of the global emphasis on green development and environmental protection, seawater and sea-sand cementitious composites and components with fiber reinforcement will have a wide range of application prospects in the construction of coastal areas.