ISSN: 0149-6123
CODEN: CCAGPD
Page Count: 5

Resistance to Freezing and Thawing Cycles and Scaling Resistance of Very High Early Strength Concrete
Constantiner, D
Manager, Analytical Services, Degussa Admixtures, Inc., Ohio

Kurtz, MA
Scientist, Degussa Admixtures, Inc., Ohio

(Received 16 July 2003; accepted 21 July 2004)

Abstract

A very high early strength portland cement-based concrete (VHES) is used to prevent long closures of highway lanes by completing any necessary repairs overnight. This technology has been embraced by several DOT agencies, including those in areas where the concrete will be subjected to freezing and thawing cycles. Flexural strength of VHES concrete is the critical parameter to permit traffic flow without damage to the concrete. It is possible to produce air-entrained rapid repair concrete, but this places higher requirements on the mixture proportions to overcome strength reduction caused by the presence of air. This article presents data showing that it is possible to attain the necessary strength and achieve adequate resistance to freezing and thawing cycles. The evidence presented includes accelerated testing using ASTM C 666, Procedure A, and scaling resistance using ASTM C 672. Additional evidence is presented showing that VHES concrete of low w/c can be durable with larger than acceptable spacing factor levels or without air entrainment.

Keywords:
resistance to freezing and thawing cycles, scaling, air void parameters, VHES concrete, rapid repair of concrete

Paper ID: CCA12074
DOI: 10.1520/CCA12074
ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.