1. Electrical resistivity, freezing-thawing and long-term strength properties of lightweight concrete composed of calcined attapulgite cold bonded lightweight aggregate.
- Author
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Abbas, Mohammed L. and Abbas, Waleed A.
- Abstract
This manuscript explores the impact of calcined attapulgite cold-bonded lightweight aggregates (CATLWAs) on the long-term strength, electrical resistivity, and freeze-thaw properties of concrete blends containing fly ash (FA) and microsilica (MS). Beginning with the transformation of attapulgite rocks into a pozzolanic material through crushing, grinding, and calcination. 20% Portland cement (PC) with 80% calcined attapulgite (CAT) mixture was pelletized into CATLWAs via a cold bonding process. Twelve distinct concrete mixtures were created, incorporating CATLWAs by replacing conventional aggregates up to 100%. Varying percentages of PC, MS, and FA were also explored in the cementitious blends. The study spanned examining long term-strength up to 360 days, as well as electrical resistivity, and freeze-thaw performance. The results revealed a 32.8% reduction in strength and a 54% decrease in resistivity when fine and coarse CATLWAs were introduced, compared to the control mix. However, the incorporation of CATLWAs in concrete significantly improved its freeze-thaw resistance, outperforming traditional aggregates. All the concretes have a durability factor ranging from 89-92%, demonstrating complete resistance to freeze-thaw cycles. This research underscores the potential benefits of lightweight aggregates in enhancing concrete durability, especially in challenging freeze-thaw conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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