Mechanical and durability properties of cement mortar with Algerian natural pozzolana

This paper presents a study of the properties and behaviour of cement mortar with natural pozzolana from Algeria. The effect of level of addition of natural pozzolana (0, 10, 20, 30, and 40%) on the mechanical properties of mortars at different ages as well as the effect of curing environment and the period of initial curing on the mechanical properties were investigated. The performance of natural pozzolana cement exposed to three aggressive solutions (acids, sulphate, and chloride) is also analysed. The results indicate that the strength of pozzolanic cement is lower than that of plain Portland cement at early ages, but can reach the same order of strength at longer curing periods. The enhancement of the resistance to acid and sulphate attack as well as to chloride ion penetration of natural pozzolanic cement is also demonstrated.