Effect of volcanic ash on the properties of cement paste and mortar

Volcanic ash (VA) is formed during volcanic eruptions. Volcanic glass is relatively high in silica, and its physical and chemical properties could be referenced with ASTM C618-93, a Standard Specification for 'Fly Ash and Raw or Calcinated Natural Pozzolan for Use as a Mineral Admixture in Portland Cement Concrete'. This paper presents comprehensive details of the physical, chemical properties of volcanic ash, and its micro-structure and hydration products. It also covers effect of volcanic ash on consistency, setting times, workability, compressive strength, electrical resistivity of cement paste and mortar. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.