Models for compressive strength estimation through non-destructive testing of highly self-compacting concrete containing recycled concrete aggregate and slag-based binder. (19th April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Revilla-Cuesta, Víctor; Skaf, Marta; Serrano-López, Roberto; Ortega-López, Vanesa
• Is Part Of: Construction & building materials. Volume 280(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-04-19
• Subjects: SCC Self-Compacting Concrete -- RCA Recycled Concrete Aggregate -- GGBFS Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag -- UPV Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity; Recycled concrete aggregate -- Self-compacting concrete -- Non-destructive testing -- Hammer rebound index -- Ultrasonic pulse velocity -- Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag -- Structural health monitoring -- Compressive strength; Building materials -- Periodicals; 624.18
• DOI: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2021.122454
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0950-0618

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: 24 Highly SCC mixes with high contents of Recycled Concrete Aggregate (RCA) 2592 Hammer rebound index and 864 UPV analysis performed. Conventional models invalid for compressive strength estimations of RCA SCC. Non-destructive testing suitable to estimate strength regardless of SCC composition. Safe and precise models developed through rebound index and UPV for SCC. Abstract: Indirect estimation of compressive strength through non-destructive testing is key to monitoring the strength of structural concretes used in construction and rehabilitation works. However, no models are available to perform this estimation in highly Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) with Recycled Concrete Aggregate (RCA). To fill this gap, two indirect measures were tested in this paper, the hammer rebound index and Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV), to predict the compressive strength of highly SCC. To do so, 24 SCC mixes were developed with different aggregate powders, binders, such as Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS), and contents of fine RCA. Compressive strength, and both indirect measures of all mixtures were determined at 1, 7, 28, and 90 days. The development of specific models for highly SCC responded to the inappropriateness of conventional models that are not adapted to its high fines content. Modelling as a function of either UPV or the hammer rebound index yielded accurate predictions, although the UPV model proved more sensitive to compositional changes and presented higher uncertainty. The best predictions were modelled by combining both indirect measures. The models provided safe and accurate indirect estimations of the compressive strength of high flowability SCC in real structures.