Fresh State Characterization of Low-Cement Content Concrete

In 2010 and 2015, the cement industry produced approximately 3.3 and 4.1 billion tons of cement, respectively; hence almost 2 and 2.5 billion tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) were emitted, respectively. Given this rapid growth of CO2 emissions together with the importance of cement in concrete strength development, research studies have focused on approaches to reduce the CO2 of cement consumption. Although it is necessary to reduce cement use to produce a more environmental friendly concrete, it is important to analyze its effects on concrete durability. Reducing the cement content will lower concrete pH, which is normally very alkaline. This could affect concrete durability because high pH values protect against corrosion of the reinforcing steel. This research will characterize the low-cement content concrete on fresh state to conclude how the reduction of cement affects concrete porosity and viscosity, that will change concrete durability.

Faculty Supervisor:

Martin Noel

Student:

Partner:

Universidade de São Paulo

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

University:

University of Ottawa

Program:

Globalink Research Award