Cements for frost resistant concrete

In Polish climatic conditions frost resistance of concrete is one of its most important durability properties. There are many material and technological factors influencing on that property of concrete, however, it can be assumed that modification of structure of cement matrix porosity by introducing air-entraining admixtures into concrete mix is the most effective used solution. In the paper innovative way in that manner, based on the production of air-entraining cement (AEC) was presented. Portland-fly ash cement CEM II/B-V according to European Standard for common cements EN 197-1 is included in the research. Cement containing siliceous fly ash with addition of air-entraining admixtures (AEA) was obtained by semi-industrial test. Scope of analysis covered ability of cements to aerate mortar and concrete as well as their physical and mechanical properties. Based on the performed investigations authors indicated possibility of obtaining cements with air-entraining admixture which meet the requirements for common cements and are able to aerate effectively mortar and concrete mix according to design assumptions.

Author: M. Ostrowski, Z. Giergiczny, T. Baran, M. Najduchowska

Section: Concrete

Keywords: concrete, mortar, air entraining cement, frost resistance