Influence of aggregate surface area on the mechanical properties of mortar
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to investigate the influence of aggregate surface area on the mechanical properties of mortar. This goal was met by performing compression tests on a series of mortars containing different aggregate sizes. By varying the aggregate surface area, the quantity of transition zone is varied. The transition zone paste is known to have different properties than the bulk paste. Increasing the aggregate surface area was found to toughen the mortars. Both the peak stress and strain-to-peak were increased with increase in aggregate surface area. Silica fume was found to lessen the effects of aggregate surface area. The peak strain and strain-to-peak in mortars containing silica fume did increase with aggregate surface area, however, the toughening effect was not observed. The total strain energy for silica fume mortars remained constant with respect to surface area. In addition, SEM studies were performed to aid in the interpretation of the mechanical testing results. The SEM results confirmed some of the conclusions made from the mechanical testing and helped to clarify some inconsistencies in the mechanical test results. The conclusions drawn from this experimental work and their potential for application are discussed in full.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Cohen, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Civil engineering
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