Effects of Cement Changes and Aggregate System on Mechanical Properties of Concrete

Abstract

In this study, the mechanical properties of concrete mixtures containing different cementitious combinations and two aggregate systems were investigated under plastic and drying conditions. Emphasis was laid on the durability and shrinkage of concrete. Life cycle analysis (LCA) was also conducted by using the Green Concrete LCA web tool. Results indicated that the presence of larger aggregate sizes tend to enhance durability of concrete. The presence of nanosilica also imparted superior mechanical properties to concrete. A cementitious combination containing Portland limestone cement and fly ash with larger aggregate sizes emerged as a better performing mixture in terms of mechanical properties and with minimum environmental impact.