Ultra-durable concretes: Structure at the micro- and nanoscale

Ultrahigh-performance concretes (UHPCs) are obtained by optimizing several technologies: minimizing the amount of water added, using superplasticizers and a wide particle size distribution, and packing the particles to improve fluidity with minimized water additions and to optimize load-carrying capacity. Fibers can be incorporated to increase ductility, leading to ultrahigh-performance fiber-reinforced concretes (UHPFRCs). Such enhanced concretes can approach the compressive strength of steel, with a remarkable improvement in durability. UHPCs offer new solutions for innovative construction, especially in aggressive environments.