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Mechanical and Microstructural Investigation of the Aggregate and Cement Interface

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  21 February 2011

Zongjin Li
Affiliation:
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Department of Civil and Structural Engineering, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Surendra P. Shah
Affiliation:
Northwestern University, NSF ACBM Center, 2145 Sheridan Rd., Evanston, IL 60208
Matthew J. Aquino
Affiliation:
Skidmore, Owings and Morrill (S.O.M.), 224 s. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60604
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Abstract

The understanding of the interface between aggregate and cement is crucial in determining the properties of concrete. Recently, a pushout experimental technique and a theoretical model have been developed to determine the stiffness, strength and surface energy of the interface layer. The validity of these material parameters was verified in the present study by examining the effect of diameter and embedment length of aggregate. In addition, the effect of the pretreatment of aggregate surface and various admixtures was investigated. All pushout tests were performed in a closed-loop manner to obtain the load vs. displacement relationship.

The interfacial zone was further investigated by using backscattered electron imaging and energy dispersive analysis of x-rays (EDAX) to characterize the microstructure of the interface. The relationship between mechanical properties and microstructure of interfacialzone was studied. It was shown that the microstructure of the interface plays a substantial role in the mechanical behavior of the aggregate/cement bond.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 1995

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References

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