Strength Model for Mortar Based on Hydration Heat and Microstructure Developments

Abstract

This paper presents a strength model for Portland cement mortar with and without partial replacement mineral powders, limestone filler, blast furnace slag, and fly ash. The model was developed based on hydration heats and microstructure developments. The investigation was conducted on cylindrical mortar specimens with different water-to-cement ratios, different types of cements, and different curing conditions. The compressive strength of mortar was found to have a linear relationship with the ratio of hydration heat coupled with the porosity. Consequently, a strength model for mortar compressive strength, which is a summation of all heat-pore components multiplied by their own strength contribution factors, was established. The calculations of compressive strength using the proposed model agreed well with the experimental results in terms of cement paste, mortar, and concrete.