The effects of cementitious materials on the mechanical and durability performance of high-strength concrete

Various tests, focusing on the effects of the type and composition of cementitious materials (ordinary Portland cement, fly ash, slag, low-heat cement, and their combinations) on the mechanical properties and durability of high-strength concrete, were performed to provide experimental data for the application of high-strength concrete to prestressed bridges. Firstly, mix proportions were designed based on a number of trial mixes, taking into account their applicability to prestressed bridges. Mechanical properties, such as compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, splitting tensile strength and flexural strength, were determined. Durability related properties, such as temperature of hydration, resistance to chloride-ion penetration, resistance to freezing-thawing, autogenous and drying shrinkages and creep, were also determined. The effects of cementitious materials on the various properties of high-strength concrete have been demonstrated.