Doctoral Dissertations
Abstract
"Transport properties, governing the resistance of cement-based materials to harmful substances are essential considerations for long-term performance. This study addressed the often-overlooked dimension of transport properties in unsaturated cement-based materials, crucial as most concrete structures face variable environmental conditions, leading to partial saturation. A two-scale model was introduced, enhancing our comprehension of transport properties in conditions reflecting real-world scenarios. Empirical correlation representing bulk paste characteristics was established, facilitating the upscaling of properties to mortar and concrete. The model was extended to predict the transport properties of mortar as well.
Environmental factors can contribute to the degradation of cement-based materials, with freeze-thaw (FT) cycling particularly prevalent in cold climates, posing a primary concern for infrastructure durability. This study provided a comprehensive review of the physical degradation of concrete subjected to FT cycling. The review critically examined methodologies for characterizing FT degradation, encompassing non-destructive testing (NDT) and mechanical testing. Additionally, this study delved into predicting the strength of intact and partially damaged concrete under the environmental stress of FT cycling. Machine learning proved valuable tools for the prediction of strength, leveraging concrete mix proportions, specimen conditioning, and combining various NDTs. The findings showed the possibility of estimating the (residual) strength of any concrete under real-world conditions based on complementary NDTs even without knowing the mix proportions."-- Abstract, p. iv
Advisor(s)
Ma, Hongyan
Committee Member(s)
Kumar, Aditya
Liu, Jenny
Khayat, Kamal
ElGawady, Mohamed
Department(s)
Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
Degree Name
Ph. D. in Civil Engineering
Publisher
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Publication Date
Spring 2025
Pagination
xvi, 182 pages
Note about bibliography
Includes_bibliographical_references_(page 181)
Rights
©2024 Rezwana Binte Hafiz , All Rights Reserved
Document Type
Dissertation - Open Access
File Type
text
Language
English
Thesis Number
T 12483
Recommended Citation
Hafiz, Rezwana Binte, "Characterization and Modeling of Properties of Unsaturated and Partially Damaged Cement-Based Materials" (2025). Doctoral Dissertations. 3383.
https://scholarsmine.mst.edu/doctoral_dissertations/3383
