Statistical model used to assessment the sulphate resistance of mortars with fly ashes

• Main Authors: Marczewska Julia, Jaworska Monika
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: De Gruyter 2019-11-01
• Series: Open Engineering
• Subjects: high calcium fly ashes; mineral admixture; sulphate resistance
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1515/eng-2019-0063

The use of low (LCFA) and high (HCFA) calcium fly ashes in the cement industry allows the implementation of European Union proposals on waste management and energy saving. However, the possibility of using HCFA is limited, because the properties of such waste from coal-fired power plants must comply with national regulations. The paper shows the effect of partial replacement of Portland cement (OPC) by these fly ashes on the resistance of the sulphate attack of the mortars immersed in a 5% solution of sodium sulphate. In order to determine the optimal amount of ash additive, a research plan was designed using statistical methods using the Gibbs triangle for mixtures. Samples of control mortars of OPC, binary mixtures of HCFA or LCFA and ternary mixtures of HCFA/LCFA were made. The composition of the blends was designed in accordance with the statistical plan of the experiment for mixtures. The testing program included linear strains, compressive strength and microstructure tests using SEM with EDXA and XRD analysis. The results of laboratory tests and statistical analyzes have shown that fly ash has a positive effect on the sulphate resistance of cementitious composites.