Search

This study analyzed feasibility of manufacture of composite particleboards resinated with a mixture of phenol–formaldehyde resin and 4,4′-methylenediphenyl isocyanate in the weight ratio 70:30. For this purpose 3-layer particleboards were produced with varying shares of Kraft scrap paper pulp in the core. Experimental boards were manufactured applying 0, 10, 15, 25, 50 and 75% substitution of wood chips with Kraft paper pulp. Analyses were conducted to determine physico-mechanical properties of boards, i.e. bending strength, modulus of elasticity, internal bond before and after the boiling test and swelling in thickness after 24 soaking in water. Based on recorded testing results it was stated that moisture resistant composite boards manufactured with a 25% substitution of wood chips with Kraft paper pulp meet the requirements of the EN 312 standard for boards used in humid conditions in terms of their strength and moisture resistance specified in the internal bond after the boiling test.

This paper researches the influence of zinc coating of galvanized DP600 steel (DP600G) on the nugget development and mechanical properties of dissimilar DP600 - AISI304 welded joints obtained by resistance spot welding process (RSW). The RSW evaluations consisted of determining, from the dynamic resistance curves, the different stages involved in nugget formation. The experimental results showed that the zinc coating on the DP600G steel has a significant influence on the time needed for the start of the nugget formation, two times higher than that used for non-galvanized steel. The expulsion time was delayed by 1.12 times. The presence of Zn in the DP600G/AISI304 welded joints produced smaller nugget diameters compared to the DP600/AISI304 joints for the same experimental conditions, however higher peak failure load values were obtained for the first. The causes of this unusual behavior are also analyzed in this paper.

Cold recycled bound materials (CRBMs) provide an economic and environmental advantage for pavements since they decrease energy and raw material consumption. However, design methods for airfield pavements do not include key CRBM properties. In this paper an empirical-mechanistic method is used to study airfield pavement design with CRBM in order to develop design guidance. The aim of the paper is to obtain the inputs related to material properties needed for use in this method. For this purpose, CRBM containing reclaimed asphalt, with fly ash, cement and foamed bitumen as stabilising agents, was characterised. The methodology included indirect tensile stiffness modulus (ITSM) and indirect tensile fatigue tests (ITFT) in strain control mode. The inputs needed for a pavement design analysis with CRBM were then obtained. The results showed the importance of further study on CRBM fatigue to understand the behaviour of these mixes under cyclic loading.

This paper examines the effect on mechanical properties such as compressive strength, flexural strength, and dynamic modulus of elasticity (DYE) of different proportions of wollastonite (β-CaSiO3) and colloidal nano-silica (n-SiO2) partially replacing cement. Durability indicators (water absorption, sorptivity and sulphate treatment test) were also examined to ascertain the quality of hardened paste mixes with respect to the control mix. The regression models were found for mechanical properties using different parameters from the results obtained, and statistical relations were established and validated. Regression analysis shows the significance of every parameter considered and model for the prediction of mechanical strengths. Finally, the results were substantiated by the microstructural characterization by FESEM. β-CaSiO3 and colloidal n-SiO2 replaced cement by 15%, and 1.5%-6% with an offset of 1.5%, respectively at low (0.25), medium (0.40) and high (0.55) water/binder (w/b) ratio. FESEM micrographs showed dense Calcium-silicate-hydrate (CSH) gel and stratlingite (CASH) was formed by blended cement paste mixes containing β-CaSiO3 and n-SiO2. n-SiO2 at 3% and CaSiO3 at 15% replacements of cement (NS3 mix) was the optimum replacement level for the cement paste mix. Analysed regression model suggests that the models and parameters were found significant and can also be used for prediction (based on R2 values and p-value).

This paper investigated the effects of heat treatment in open (atmospheric pressure) and a closed (under pressure) system on the shear and adhesion strength of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) wood. In addition, pull-off adherence testing was carried out of the coatings with water-based, polyurethane-based and oil/wax-based varnishes. Shear strength decreased significantly after heat treatment in Scots pine (31 % to 39 %) in open system, while it decreased between 2 % and 38% in the closed system without glue. The shear strength of the wood samples glued with glue was higher than the samples without glue at laboratory scale. The lower shear strength of modified wood could be attributed to other factors, such as the reduced chemical bonding or mechanical interlocking of adhesives, and the reduced strength of brittle modified wood substrate. With increasing heat treatment temperature adherence decreased. Maximum pull-off adhesion (4,80 MPa) was observed in the control samples coated with PUR.

This paper had the objective of statistically analyzing the effects of the substitution of high levels of fly ash in concretes. It was produced reference concretes and concretes containing fly ash with substitutions of 30, 50, and 70% of the Portland cement mass. The water/cement material relations in these concretes ranged between 0.45, 0.50, and 0.55. With these parameters, it was conducted a factorial project 32 to analyze the results concerning the mechanical properties of compressive strength and consistency index of the concretes. It was elaborated nine concrete mixtures and their replicates. With the results obtained, it was performed a statistical analysis using ANOVA, Pareto Diagram and Tukey Test. The regression models obtained were adequate, with acceptable values of R2. The validation of the model occurred through two concretes with water/cement material ratios of 0.475 and 60 % of substitution of fly ash in relation to the Portland cement. This mixture presented an average compressive strength of 33.38 MPa at 115 days. The study showed that the ground fly ash was the most significant factor to the mechanical resistance of the concretes, significantly contributing to the increase of the compressive strength in advanced ages.

The purpose of this paper is to present an evaluation of different types of cement and the incidence of Delayed Ettringite Formation (DEF) through mortar composites cast in the laboratory and exposed to a high curing temperature over a 12-month study period. DEF represents one of the types of Internal Sulfate Attacks (ISA) related to an expansive chemical reaction that occurs inside of concrete involving the sulfates from cement. Experiments involved the assessment of expansions, compressive and tensile strengths as well as microstructural characteristics over time. It was observed that tests performed on mortars and with a specific mix required an extended evaluation period to distinguish the behaviors. Furthermore, high early-strength cement featured the worst binder when faced with DEF.

This paper deals with the possibility of the improvement of pervious concrete properties by incorporation of different types of fibres and studies the effect of short duration vibration of pervious concrete properties in comparison with compaction with wooden lath and hammer. Ten mixtures of pervious concrete were prepared, five of which were compacted with wooden lath and hammer and five by short duration vibration. Density, porosity, permeability and mechanical properties were tested for in hardened pervious concrete specimens. It was concluded that mixtures compacted by short duration vibration had better mechanical properties due to the formation of a viscous layer at the contact surface between the aggregate grain and the cement matrix during the compaction, as well as pore-related properties. The addition of fibres negatively affected porosity and permeability but generally improved mechanical properties of concrete. The positive effect of fibre addition was more emphasised in cases of vibrated mixtures.

This paper investigates the influence of silica coated rubber on the performance of rubber mortars. A classical Stöber sol-gel method is applied to produce a layer of silica coating on rubber particles, which is used to partially replace the fine aggregates in concrete. The effects of the surface-modified rubber particles on the flowability, mechanical strength, capillary water absorption rate, and microstructure of mortars are examined. The results show that the silica coating on the rubber particles reduces the contact angle between the rubber particles from 120° to 103° (i.e., by 17°) and changes the hydrophobic properties from strong hydrophobicity to weak hydrophobicity. The mechanical strengths of mortars are significantly improved by the incorporation of surface-modified rubber particles, i.e., from 41.60% to 44.86% (compressive strength) and from 7.80% to 26.28% (flexural strength). In addition, the incorporation of surface modified rubber particles increases the density of the mortar’s microstructure and enhances the interfaces with its surrounding pastes.

Mayan buildings have been the subject of significant archaeological and architectural research; however, so far there have been no relevant references concerning structural or mechanical behavior. Ancient Mayan constructors used calcareous rocks to build temples and housing that were placed systematically to withstand mechanical loads in the structures. This paper studies the mineralogical and mechanical characteristics of calcareous stony material that formed part of Mayan archeological vestiges in Yucatan area. The orientation of the rocks´ geological strata was taken into account to study mechanical behavior from cylindrical cores in compressing test. On the other hand, bars were also manufactured to simulate lintel or architrave structural performance. Compression and bending tests confirmed a high influence of the geological layer orientation, since the mechanical properties of such rocks were found to vary with direction. Acoustic emission was used to provide information referring to onset and propagation of damage in cylinder and bar samples.

Simulations of impact events in the automotive industry are now common practice. Vehicle crashworthiness simulations on plastic components cover a wide range of strain rates from 0.01 to 500 s-1. Because plastics mechanical properties are very dependent on strain rate, developing experimental methods for generating stress-strain curves at this strain rate range is of great technological importance. In this paper, a modified Charpy machine capable of acquiring useful information to obtain the stress-strain curve is presented. Strain rates between 300 to 400 s-1 were achieved. Three thermoplastics were tested: high-density polyethylene, polypropylene-copolymer and polypropylene-homopolymer. Impact simulations using LS-DYNA were performed using the acquired high-strain rates stress-strain curves and compared with experimental data. Simulations using stress-strain curves from quasi-static tests were also performed for comparison. Very good agreement between the simulation and experimental results was found when the ASTM D1822 type S specimen was used for testing each material.

Walls of Interlocking Stabilised Soil Blocks (ISSBs) have been considered in low-cost houses around the world especially in developing countries. These were reported to be very weak in resisting the lateral load (e.g. wind or earthquake) without special considerations. In this paper, mechanical properties (compressive strength, elastic modulus, pre/post crack energy absorbed and toughness index) of ISSBs with three configurations and seven combinations of plain and fibrous mortar cubes are experimentally evaluated. Sisal fibre and rice straw (2% and 5%, by cement mass) were considered for fibrous mortar. Empirical equations were developed to predict elastic modulus. It was found that ISSBs had reasonable strength to be considered for masonry. The failure load and toughness index of 2% sisal fibre samples was improved by 10% and 16%, respectively, whereas 2.21 times enhancement was found in elastic modulus. Thus, 2% sisal fibre in plaster (i.e. reinforced coating) would likely improve the lateral resistance of interlocked masonry walling.

In this paper, calcium carbonate (CaCO3) whisker as a fiber reinforcement is mixed with steel and PVA fiber to form a multiscale hybrid fiber reinforced cementitious composites (MHFRCC). ASTM standard and post-crack strength techniques are performed to evaluate the mechanical properties of MHFRCC. The 1.25 % long steel fiber, 0.55 % short PVA fiber and 2.0 % CaCO3 whisker specimens showed the best flexural behavior before L/600 deflection. However, 1.5 % long steel fiber, 0.4 % long PVA fiber and 1.0 % CaCO3 whisker specimens presented better crack resistance after L/600 deflection. It is revealed that flexural parameters increase as comprehensive reinforcing index increase. The result showed that the CaCO3 whisker and short PVA fiber provided crack resistance effect at micro-scale and mainly play a dominate role in inhibiting micro-cracking. However, long steel fiber and long PVA fiber showed a better bridging effect of macro cracks at a large deflection.

The aim of this paper was to investigate the effects of wood flour on the mechanical, morphological and thermal properties of poly (L-lactic acid) (PLA)-chitosan biopolymer composites produced by compression molding. The composites were characterized by a combination of mechanical properties, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The addition of chitosan to PLA matrix reduced the tensile strength from 57.1 MPa for pure PLA to 34.3 MPa for 5% chitosan and 11.5 MPa for 10% chitosan, and the flexure strength from 72.3 MPa for pure PLLA to 30.4 MPa for 5% chitosan and 24.6 MPa for 10% chitosan. The change trend in the young’s modulus was found to be similar as compare with the tensile strength. However, the flexure modulus generally increased with the addition of the chitosan as comparison with pure PLA. The mechanical properties of the PLA-chitosan blends with wood flour were found to be lower than theirs of the pure PLA. According to SEM images, some holes and small voids at various diameters on the fractured section of the all composites were seen. Tonset, T10%, T50%, T85% of the pure PLA decreased with the addition of both chitosan and wood flour. Thermal stability of the PLA-chitosan blends was determined to be better than the PLA-chitosan composites with wood flour.

In this paper, the impacts of heartwood and sapwood usage on the physical, mechanical, and surface properties and formaldehyde emission of particleboard are investigated. European Larch (Larix decidua) trees are chosen as a raw material. The logs are divided into three segments: sapwood, heartwood and total wood. The highest amounts of cellulose (51.54%), and hemicelluloses (22.24%) in the sapwood, followed by total wood, and the heartwood, respectively. However, the highest amount of lignin (30.54%) was found in the heartwood. The highest extractives values are obtained from heartwood, followed by total wood, and the sapwood, respectively. While the lowest pH value (3.03) is found in heartwood, the sapwood samples provide the highest values (4.95). The highest ash (0.49%) content and amount of condensed tannin (13.89%) are extracted from heartwood, followed by total wood, and sapwood, respectively. The test panels manufactured from sapwood have the smoothest surface (7.49 µm (Ra), 48.86 µm (Ry), and 35.12 µm (Rz)) and the lowest contact angles (67.8ᵒ), while the roughest surface (14.20 µm (Ra), 68.05 µm (Ry), and 50.02 µm (Rz)) and highest contact angle (96.9ᵒ) are obtained from the panels of heartwood. The thickness swelling (19.88%) and formaldehyde emission (7.28%) values of the panels manufactured from heartwood are significantly lower than the panels manufactured from the total wood and sapwood. The highest modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), and internal bond (IB) values are observed on sapwood, respectively, 15.60 MPa (MOR), 2201 MPa (MOE), and 0.523 MPa (IB). These mechanical strength values (MOR, MOE, and IB) are followed by total wood, and the heartwood, respectively. Surface smoothness and wettability of the particleboards manufactured from sapwood are better than those of total wood and heartwood.

This paper extends the previous work of the authors and deals with the study of fracture of sandwich panels of plasterboard and rock wool under in-plane bending and tensile loading. It presents the results of the experimental campaign focused on the size effect of the tested specimens. To this end, mixed-mode (I and II) fracture tests have been carried out with specimens of three different sizes. The experimental results are compared with the values obtained from the numerical simulation of the test by using a model based on the embedded cohesive crack developed by the authors in previous published works. Comparison of the results shows how the model is able to reproduce the size effect of the specimens in this material from the parameters that characterize fracture behaviour. The aim is to use the cohesive model proposed by the authors to move from laboratory tests to a built panel.

This study was conducted in cooperation with a United States pulp and paper company targeting part of the pulp production as raw material for fiber-reinforced cement sheets manufacturing. Virgin kraft pulp of Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and recycled fiber of old corrugated containers were used in making wood fiber-cement flat sheets. The physical and mechanical properties of the sheets were compared with an available commercial product. Results showed that Douglas fir fiber is a potential choice as reinforcement for wood fiber-cement sheets, as this fiber type outperformed the commercial ones for most of the properties studied. The difference in kappa number from 25 to 35 did not have any effect on the properties of Douglas fir sheets. Even recycled old corrugated containers fiber provided sheets with some properties comparable to the commercial product. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that a dual mechanism of fiber breakage and pull out occurred at rupture.

The quality of secondary materials is imperative to promote a circular economy. In order to improve the way in which the quality of recycled gypsum is assessed, European guidelines on recycled gypsum (RG) quality criteria have been outlined in the framework of the Life+ Gypsum to Gypsum (GtoG) project. Such GtoG guidelines, along with the European Standard on gypsum plasterboard EN 520, provided the basis for this study. During the GtoG project, gypsum recycling and plasterboard manufacturing processes were monitored by testing the gypsum feedstock and the plasterboard produced. The aim of this paper is to discuss the results obtained on relevant parameters that characterize gypsum as a secondary raw material, as well as the resulting product. The minimum requirements were fulfilled by 56% of the RG samples and 86% of the plasterboard with increased RG.

Fired clay bricks are widely developed by focusing on the use of several wastes with the aim of obtaining lightweight materials. Despite research having provided positives experiences, most of these showed an important reduction of compression strength. This issue must be highlighted in particular, when seismic areas are considered. However, despite compression strength decreases in some cases the energy that can be absorbed by the brick might be increased. Hence, this paper tests and shows physical and mechanical properties of newly fired clays made by adding different percentages of sawdust. Results are used for calculating the response of an individual one-story house to medium intensity earthquakes. It is concluded that the use of bricks, with up to 5% sawdust added, is an ecological way for recycling these agro-wastes, while its behaviour against earthquakes performs better than other solutions, such as common perforated bricks.

Indigenous communities have long used the natural resources around them. Most of the traditional construction techniques used are the result of empirical knowledge and of their own and humble style coming to life through craftsmanship. The physical and mechanical properties of the different types of wood used in the construction of indigenous households in the municipality of Tuchín are analyzed in this paper taking into account their features, uses, and renown importance. To obtain the information regarding the properties, the different uses bestowed to the various tree species were studied; in order to do so, trials to defectless wood samples were performed in accordance with established rules. The properties of moisture content, anhydrous density, basic density, basic specific gravity, total and partial contractions –radial, tangential, and volumetric, and parallel and perpendicular compression stress were determined.

Hot bituminous mixtures are becoming widely used in modern railway tracks in the sub-ballast layer. The reason is that these materials allow for both an increase in bearing capacity and greater protection of the substructure respect the traditional granular sub-ballast. Despite these advantages, the fact that these materials are manufactured at a temperature of 160°C means that their application can lead to an important increase in construction costs, pollution and energy consumption. This paper aims to study the possibility of using WMA manufactured at lower temperatures, as bituminous sub-ballast, in order to save energy and reduce emissions throughout the production process, as well as diminish the global costs of this layer. To this end, this study focuses on a comparison of the mechanical behaviour of warm and hot bituminous mixtures as sub-ballast under various loading conditions. The results indicate that WMA offers mechanical behaviour that is comparable to conventional HMA.

The use of Half Warm Mixes with high Reclaimed Asphalt content (HWMRA) has the potential to generate significant environmental advantages such as the reduction in consumption of natural resources and the emission of gases into the atmosphere. This paper therefore focuses on demonstrating the viability of using these types of mixes in wearing courses. For this purpose, an HWMRA with 70 % and 100 % Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) and emulsion were designed in the laboratory. The performance of the mixes was then assessed and compared with that of conventional Hot Mix Asphalt. In a second stage, the mixes were manufactured in-plant, and laid and compacted in an Accelerated Pavement Test track. The cores were then extracted and tested for stiffness modulus and resistance to fatigue. The results from the tests conducted with both the laboratory specimens and the cores showed that the performance of HWMRA is comparable to that of HMA. These findings encourage greater confidence in promoting the use of these types of sustainable asphalt mixes.

The aim of this paper is to present the evaluation of feasibility of hydraulic fracturing job in Colorado Field wells. For this reason, it was considered for a hydraulic fracturing treatment in Colorado’s wells to be successful you must fulfill two criteria: the fracture has to be technically enforceable and economically feasible.With a production model there were selected the Wells that presented greater potential to reduce the damage in the wellbore. Later the technical evaluation was made by geomechanical characterization of lithological column which allowed setting: pore pressure, mechanical properties and stress. Intervals were selected to intervene using the petrophysical model. Within these intervals it was evaluated the feasibility of generating a hydraulic fracture by determining the type of initial failure of the rock, presence of high containment barriers of height, fracture gradient and contrast of mechanical properties.According to the Unified Fracture Design methodology it was designed the optimum fracture geometry which maximizes the well productivity. This potential incremental design was used to evaluate the economic feasibility of fracturing which allowed to establish whether the initial investment and operating cost of treatment were recovered during the treatment time.

The paper deals with the synergistic effect of mineral additions on the physical-mechanical performance of ternary blends prepared with different Portland cements (PC). The effect in setting and heat flow release is also analyzed. The mineral additions used are blast furnace slag (BFS), fly ash (FA) and limestone filler (LF). PCs with different C3A and alkali content have been tested to study the synergy in ternary blends. Ternary binders with PC low in C3A and alkali content achieve similar mechanical strength gain as plain PC and refinement of pore size distribution from early hydration ages due to the acceleration of PC hydration induced by the mineral additions. In contrast, ternary binders with PC higher in C3A and alkali content have a delayed in mechanical strength at early hydration ages, but significantly higher at long hydration times.

Scrap tyres are a problematic waste material. As a method for recycling large quantities of rubber from scrap tyres, this paper analyses the use of unbound granular mixtures with varying percentages of rubber particles as sub-ballast in railway lines. Bearing capacity for such mixtures is studied in laboratory and field tests using static and dynamic plate load tests, as well as cyclic triaxial tests. It is found that adding rubber increases permanent and resilient strain and that none of the mixtures suffer plastic creep after 2.5 million cycles. Considering the usual bearing capacity requirements, the optimum rubber content is 2.5% (by weight). This percentage increases resistance to degradation while ensuring sufficient bearing capacity.

The disposal of coal by products represents environmental and economical problems around the world. Therefore, the reuse and valorisation of this waste has become an important issue in the last decades. While high-value construction products containing fly ash were developed and its use is actually totally accepted as an addition to cement, the use of the bottom ash as supplementary cementitious material has not been allow. This paper examines the chemical and physical properties of fly ashes and bottom ashes from two different coal power plants in order to compare them and analyse the potential feasibility of bottom ash as cement replacement. The mechanical properties of cement mortars made with different percentages of both ashes were also study. The results obtained showed similar chemical composition of both kinds of ashes. The compressive strength values of mortars with 10 % and 25 % of cement replacement (at 28 days) were above the limits established in European standards and there were not significant differences between fly ash and bottom ash from both origins.La eliminación de subproductos del carbón supone problemas ambientales y económicos en todo el mundo por lo que la reutilización y valorización de los mismos se ha convertido en un tema importante en las últimas décadas. Mientras que las cenizas volantes se han utilizado en aplicaciones de alto valor y se han desarrollado productos de construcción en los que se ha utilizado esta ceniza como adición al cemento, no se ha sido permitido la utilización de la ceniza de fondo como en cementos. Este artículo examina las propiedades químicas y físicas de las cenizas volantes y de fondo procedentes de dos centrales termoeléctricas con el objetivo de compararlas y analizar la potencial utilización de la ceniza de fondo como adición al cemento. Se han estudiado también las propiedades mecánicas de morteros de cemento fabricados con distintos porcentajes de ambas cenizas como sustitución del cemento. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que las ambos tipos de cenizas tenían una composición química similar. Los valores de resistencia a compresión a 28 días de los morteros con un 10 % y 25 % de porcentaje de sustitución estaban dentro de los límites permitidos en la normativa Europea y no había diferencias significativas entre las cenizas volantes y de fondo procedentes de ambas centrales térmicas.

The main objective of this paper is to describe the development of a prototype of human bone (cortical rib), tacuaras from bamboo; plant genus representative of Andean forests of Latin American and Asian countries, and the evaluation of the mechanical properties of this material for the development of a biomaterial. The treatment of the raw material for prototype development and mechanical characterizations from tensile, compression and hardness are shown here. This work shows the static mechanical properties of a biomaterial created from bamboo branches and cobalted resin, their response to different loads and their possible use for the design of prostheses. The results show that the material under test can be classified as linear elastic material, with a hardness of 17.2HV, which compared with an actual bone hardness is considered as a medium hardness and with a deformation similar to bone dry real 2.75 ± 0.72%. Additionally, the material shown a maximum tensile stress of 11.98 ± 2.57MPa, which is between the range of 8-50MPa, corresponding to real trabecular bone.

This paper assesses the performance of mortars and concretes based on alkali activated granulated blastfurnace slag (GBFS)/metakaolin (MK) blends when exposed to high temperatures. High stability of mortars with contents of MK up to 60 wt.% when exposed to 600 °C is identified, with residual strengths of 20 MPa following exposure to this temperature. On the other hand, exposure to higher temperatures leads to cracking of the concretes, as a consequence of the high shrinkage of the binder matrix and the restraining effects of the aggregate, especially in those specimens with binders containing high MK content. A significant difference is identified between the water absorption properties of mortars and concretes, and this is able to be correlated with divergences in their performance after exposure to high temperatures. This indicates that the performance at high temperatures of alkali-activated mortars is not completely transferable to concrete, because the systems differ in permeability. The differences in the thermal expansion coefficients between the binder matrix and the coarse aggregates contribute to the macrocracking of the material, and the consequent reduction of mechanical properties.

Aggregates (gravel and sand) are, after water, the Earth’s second most used natural resource, representing about 50% of all consumed mineral resources. Aggregate production generates a large quantity of waste from the aggregate washing process. This waste is made up of suspended solids – sludge – which has a great environmental impact. It is deposited in huge troughs because of the impossibility of discharging it directly into rivers. Many plants have incorporated decanters and filter presses to separate the solid from the liquid fraction. This paper evaluates the possibility of exploiting the solid fraction (i.e. sludge) in the manufacture of fired clay bricks. The added value of these bricks is, on the one hand, the exploitation of sludge as a currently useless waste product, and on the other, the use of this sludge to enhance the physical and mechanical properties of conventional fired clay bricks.

The paper presents test results concerning ceramic bricks produced in 1880’s. Bricks were obtained from a building erected as part of Archduke Rudolf barracks in Krakow. The tests helped to specify changes in brick compressive strength and hardness, caused by water saturation in the ceramic material. For comparison purposes, tests were also carried out on contemporary bricks. Tests showed that mechanical properties of the ceramic bricks in the water saturation state were worse than in the dry state. The impact of strong brick moisture on changes of mechanical parameters is essential in terms of safety assessment for brick structures.

Fast-growing tree species are important due to their short growth time before they are harvested. Both the Poplar and Eucalyptus species are fast-growing trees. These two species have been cultivated in many parts of the world, and they are used in several ways, including in the pulp and paper industry, as wood-based panels, and as structural composite lumber. In this study, laminated veneer lumbers were produced using different combinations of Poplar (Populus x euramericana I-214) and Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus grandis) veneers. Some physical and mechanical properties, including density, thickness swelling, water absorption, modulus of elasticity, modulus of rupture, impact bending, and bonding performance were investigated. According to the test data that were obtained, the mechanical properties of laminated veneer lumbers produced with Eucalyptus were greater than those of laminated veneer lumbers produced with Poplar. When the two were combined and Eucalyptus was used as the top and bottom plies, the mechanical properties also were better than those of Poplar laminated veneer lumbers. As a result, it can be said that both Poplar and Eucalyptus veneers can be used to produce laminated veneer lumbers, and Poplar laminated veneer lumbers can be reinforced with Eucalyptus veneers.

Earthquake-resistant and economical housing is the most desirable need in rural areas of developing countries. These regions often suffer significant loss of life during a seismic event. To enable an efficient and cost-effective solution, a new concept of construction, i.e. a wallette of interlocking blocks with movability at the interface and rope reinforcement, is investigated. The novel interlocking block is made of coconut fibre reinforced concrete (CFRC). The reason for using coconut fibre is their highest toughness amongst natural fibres. This paper describes the in-plane behaviour of the interlocking wallette under earthquake loadings. The wallette response is measured in terms of induced acceleration, block uplift, top maximum relative displacement and rope tension. The applied earthquake loadings cannot produce any damage in the structure, i.e. blocks and/or ropes. The response of the wallette is explained in detail along with correlation of materials aspect with structural behaviour.

Natural sand mining from rivers and seashores is causing serious environmental problems in many parts of the world, whereas the fine fraction from recycling concrete waste is underutilized as a construction material. The aim of this paper is to determine the maximum replacement level of natural sand by recycled sand in the manufacturing of masonry mortar (M-10). For this purpose, five replacement levels were tested: 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% by volume. The mixes were made using cement CEM II/BL 32.5 N in a volumetric proportion of cement-to-aggregate of 1:5. A commercial admixture was used at a constant content. The amount of water was variable to achieve a consistency of 175±10 mm. The short- and long-term mortar properties were evaluated. The data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA. In conclusion, a maximum percentage of 50% recycled concrete sand can be used in an indoor environment.

This paper reports on recent work that is directed at studying the changes in the mechanical properties of Portland cement based mortars due to the addition of carbon nanofiber (CNF). Both flexural and compression strength has been determined and related to the CNF addition to the mix, to the curing time and to the porosity and density of the matrix. Also, corrosion of embedded steel rebars in CNF cement pastes exposed to carbonation and chloride attacks has been investigated. The increase in CNF addition implies higher corrosion intensity and higher levels of mechanical properties.

The main contribution of this paper is the formulation of an alternative to experimental determination of loss factor and, consequently, to improve the predictions of airborne sound insulation for any type of monolithic or laminated glass. In addition, a review of the standards related to measurement of mechanical parameters of glass is carried out, with particular interest in laminated glass. Indeed, one of the problems that arise in the current context of building acoustics is to meet the requirements of facades airborne sound insulation of existing Building Technical Code (BTC). It is known that the blind and the hollow part of the facade should be distinguished. The weakest part regarding to airborne sound insulation is the empty one (consisting of glass, woodwork and other elements). Choosing an adequate woodwork makes the glass surface become the limiting factor. The Constructive Elements Catalog (CEC) of the BTC, the UNE-EN 12758:2011 standard, as well as some, increasingly, data vendors provide information about airborne sound insulation for monolithic glass, laminated glass and double glazing. In the case of laminated glass, these data are limited only to those with a single intermediate layer, and also nonacoustic. Can therefore be said that there is a gap of knowledge in this regard. To obtain reliable predictions of airborne sound insulation of multilayer partitions, such as laminated glass, mechanical characteristics must be known, being loss factor one of the most important.La principal aportación del trabajo es la formulación de una alternativa que facilita la determinación experimental del factor de pérdidas y, en consecuencia, mejorar las predicciones de aislamiento a ruido aéreo para vidrios con una o más capas intermedias sea cual fuere su naturaleza. Además, se realiza una revisión de las normativas relacionadas con los ensayos de los parámetros mecánicos necesarios para la caracterizar los vidrios, centrándonos en los monolíticos y los laminados. En efecto, uno de los problemas que se plantea en el contexto de la acústica de la edificación actualmente es el de cumplir con los requisitos de aislamiento acústico a ruido aéreo en fachada que exige el vigente Código Técnico de la Edificación (CTE). Como sabemos, en la fachada podemos distinguir la parte ciega y la parte hueca. La parte más débil en lo concerniente a aislamiento a ruido aéreo es la hueca (compuesta por el vidrio, carpintería y otros elementos). Si la carpintería es la adecuada, la superficie de vidrio se convierte en el elemento limitante. El Catálogo de Elementos Constructivos (CEC) del CTE, la propia norma UNE-EN 12758:2011, así como algunos, cada vez más, fabricantes ofrecen datos del aislamiento de vidrios simples, vidrios laminados y vidrios dobles. En el caso de vidrios laminados, estos datos se limitan únicamente en los que tienen un sola lámina intermedia y, además, no acústicos. Podemos hablar, por tanto, de una laguna de información en este sentido. Para obtener predicciones fiables de aislamiento acústico a ruido aéreo de particiones multicapa, como pueden ser los vidrios laminados es necesario disponer de las características mecánicas y una de las más relevantes es el factor de pérdidas.

In this paper, we study how to generate and accelerate, expansive phenomena within cementitious composites, considering elements of addiction using both fly ash and slag. We present results of monitoring of these processes from the beginning and characterize chemical, microstructural, and crystallographic by X-ray diffraction, backscattering electron microscopy, X-ray dispersive energy and mercury porosimetry. These data are supplemented with values of mechanical behavior of materials to determine their functionality. As a result of these studies, we propose a model for the generation and progression of microcracks for each alteration processes studied.En este trabajo, se estudia como generar de manera acelerada fenómenos expansivos en el interior de materiales cementicios compuestos considerando la posibilidad de utilizar como elementos de adicción tanto cenizas volantes como escorias. Se presentan resultados de la monitorización de estos procesos desde su etapa inicial y se caracterizan química, microestructural y cristalográficamente mediante difracción de rayos X, microscopía electrónica de electrones retrodispersados, energías dispersivas de rayos X y porosimetría de mercurio. Estos datos se complementan con valores de comportamiento mecánico de los materiales para determinar su funcionalidad. Como resultado de estos estudios, se propone un modelo de generación y progresión de microgrietas para cada uno de los procesos de alteración estudiado.

Experimental results of spalling and residual mechanical properties of ultra-high performance concrete after exposure to high temperatures are presented in this paper. The compressive strength of the ultra-high performance concrete ranged from 160 MPa~185 MPa. This study aimed to discover the effective way to prevent spalling for the ultra-high performance concrete and gauge its mechanical properties after it was subjected to fire. The effects of fiber type, fiber dosage, heating rate and curing condition were investigated. Test results showed that the compressive strength and elastic modulus of the ultra-high performance concrete declined slower than those of normal strength concrete after elevated temperatures. Polypropylene fiber rather than steel fiber was found effective to prevent spalling but affected workability. The effective fiber type and dosage were recommended to prevent spalling and ensure sufficient workability for casting and pumping of the ultra-high performance concrete.

En el presente trabajo se estudia la respuesta mecánica de recubrimientos elaborados mediante proyección térmica por plasma ante la presencia de esfuerzos residuales y campos de esfuerzos generados por deformaciones. Para lograr este propósito, se midieron los esfuerzos residuales durante el proceso de elaboración de recubrimientos de TiO2-Cu y se evaluó el efecto de la red de poros en la estructura de la capa obtenida a partir de imágenes de alta resolución de Microscopía Electrónica de Barrido (MEB) obtenidas de los recubrimientos de Al2O3-13TiO2, las cuales fueron posteriormente procesadas y discretizadas para su análisis mediante el Método de Elementos Finitos (MEF). Algunos parámetros operacionales empleados para elaborar los recubrimientos, tales como el flujo de gases y la corriente eléctrica, necesarios para formar el plasma, mostraron tener influencia en el contenido de poros, densidad de grietas y orientación de las mismas y en la magnitud de los esfuerzos residuales provocados. Los esfuerzos residuales determinados a partir de mediciones de deflexión durante la elaboración de los recubrimientos de TiO2-Cu, permitieron identificar su naturaleza, mientras que las simulaciones numéricas mostraron la gran influencia de la red de poros sobre el campo de esfuerzos de los recubrimientos de Al2O3-13TiO2. Del mismo modo, mediante MEF se evaluaron otras composiciones teóricas a través de la modificación de las propiedades mecánicas intrínsecas de las fases constituyentes. Para los casos considerados, las simulaciones mostraron la pobre influencia que tiene la presencia de los constituyentes secundarios en el campo de esfuerzos de los recubrimientos.This study aims a better understanding residual stress and stress field within composite plasma sprayed coatings submitted to strains. In order to reach out this objective, residual stress techniques can be implemented for measurements during elaboration of coatings and finite element analyses (FEA) can be conducted on domains resulting from the discretization of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) high resolution pictures of coating structures. TiO2-Cu and Al2O3-HTiO2 plasma sprayed coatings were considered for demonstrative purposes regarding residual stress measurements and effect of the pore network architecture, respectively. Several operating parameters permitted to manufacture coatings exhibiting different magnitude of residual stress and several porous architectures, in terms of pore content, crack density and crack orientation. Residual stress determined from measurements of deflection during elaboration of TiO2-Cu coatings allow to identify their nature while numerical simulations show the very significant influence of the network architecture on the stress field within the Al2O3-13TiO2 coatings. Based on the same analyzed structures, other theoretical compositions were considered in the finite element analyses by modifying the intrinsic mechanical properties of the phases. For the considered cases, simulations show the poor influence of the nature of the secondary phase on the stress field within the coatings. Beside these results, the paper proposes a generic methodology and points out its advantages and limits, emphasizing in particular the importance of the representative elementary volume (REV).

Fatigue of concrete is a microcracking process leading to the change of the macroscopic material properties. In particular, progressive stiffness decrease and increase of total and residual strains are developed as a function of the number of cycles and the stress level. The influence of the fatigue process on the behaviour of structural members is complex, because a cyclic redistribution of stresses develops within the structure. Owing to this fact, the employ of S-N curves to estimate the fatigue life usually leads to extremely conservative results. In this paper, a fatigue model for concrete is presented accounting for the evolution of the material properties. The model is able to obtain the fatigue life and the evolution of stresses and strains. The results are compared with other available design rules and a modification is proposed to estimate the number of cycles to failure in a simple way for the engineering practice.

Infrastructure and rail sectors share two singularities in terms of materials: highly structural performance and strict fire requirements. Moreover, there is a common growing interest in both sectors: the use of organic matrix composite materials due to their high performance, lightweight and in-service behavior. Traditionally, fire fillers have been added to the matrix, decreasing its mechanical performance in a critical way. A study about composite materials formed by three different matrices and four different carbon fibers will be presented in this paper. A number of laminates have been manufactured by using these composite materials in order to analyze both the resin processing and the compatibility of the different matrices and fibers. This study is a need due to the fact that these matrices are fire-related and therefore further problems may arise in comparison with standard matrices.

This paper describes the effect of curing conditions on the mechanical properties of mortars containing superabsorbent polymers (SAP). Curing temperature and relative humidity were varied from 20 to 40 ºC and 30 to 95%, respectively, in mixes with different water/cement and cement/aggregate ratios. Tensile and compressive strength tests were performed at several ages. Weight loss over time was measured and related to curing conditions and strength. The addition of SAPs was found to effectively maintain cement-based mortar strength under extreme curing conditions.