Multi-Aggregate Approach for Modeling Interfacial Transition Zone in Concrete
Abstract
Interfacial transition zone (ITZ) has long been of particular interest in concrete technology. The limited sensitivity of experimental techniques makes it attractive to study ITZ using computer simulations. In this paper, a multi-aggregate approach is proposed to simulate the formation of ITZ in concrete. In light of a modified status-oriented computer model for simulating cement hydration, the evolution of ITZ is also simulated in this approach. Through simulations, the influences of several factors related to concrete mixture proportion on ITZ are investigated. It is found that ITZ thickness, as defined by the overall average porosity, can be reduced by using finer aggregate, increasing aggregate volume fraction, reducing water-cement ratio (w/c), or making the binder system finer. Following hydration, the ITZ thickness decreases continuously, but the difference of porosity between ITZ and bulk paste keeps almost constant at mature ages.
Recommended Citation
H. Ma and Z. Li, "Multi-Aggregate Approach for Modeling Interfacial Transition Zone in Concrete," Materials Journal, vol. 111, no. 2, pp. 189 - 200, American Concrete Institute (ACI), Mar 2014.
The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.14359/51686501
Department(s)
Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
Keywords and Phrases
Computer Simulation; Concretes; Hydration; Porosity; Computer Modeling; Interfacial Transition Zone; ITZ Thickness; Multiaggregate Approach; Simulation; Aggregates; Status-oriented computer model
International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)
0889-325X
Document Type
Article - Journal
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2014 American Concrete Institute (ACI), All rights reserved.
Publication Date
01 Mar 2014
