Comparison of the pore size distributions of concretes with different air-entraining admixture dosages using 2D and 3D imaging approaches.

This study aims to more accurately investigate the pore size distribution of air voids in cement-based materials. For this purpose, micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) images were used to describe the inner structure of target materials, without damaging them. Together with the data obtained and the imaging techniques used, the pore structures of the specimens were visualized in 3D, with the pore size distributions being investigated using a volume-based method. The chord-length distribution, another approach to describe heterogeneous pore characteristics, was computed from 3D micro-CT images and compared with the conventional method. A RapidAir 457, an automated air void analyzer, was also used as a reference, with the results obtained being quantitatively and qualitatively compared using several curve fitting algorithms. The correlation between the pore characteristics and the mechanical properties of the specimens was examined, with the results indicating that the pore size distribution described using chord-length distribution is more effective than the conventional volume-based method. The results obtained can be utilized to investigate and predict material properties. • Two methods (2D and 3D) of pore size distribution investigation of concretes were analyzed • Concretes with different air-entraining agent dosages were produced • X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) method has been applied to obtain a 3D volumetric images of concretes • The correlation between the pore characteristics and the mechanical properties of the specimens was examined • Chord-length distribution can be effectively used to describe pore size distribution in 3D by incorporating micro-CT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]