Effect of pore structure on the durability of self-compacting concretes of similar strength

Abstract

The research on SCC has been focussed on optimizing the dosage, but there are open questions, especially regarding on durability of medium strength SCC. This work deals with the durability behaviour of three SCCs, with moderate compression strength (25 MPa), made with same dosage, but different cement (different cement additions). The results emphasize the influence of the pore size distribution on the durability. The performed tests carried out had been: water permeability under pressure, chloride diffusion and CO2 penetration. The mercury intrusion porosimetry was also performed. The results show how SCCs with very similar fresh and hardened behavior have different pore size distribution, and such an aspect affects to the potential durability.