Use of Particle Size Distribution Model to Produce High-Flowability Cementitious Composites

Abstract

High packing density is desired for production of high-flowability cementitious composites. To achieve dense packing, various particle size distribution models have been proposed by researchers. In present study, with the use of two supplementary cementitious materials at different scale smaller than ordinary Portland cement (OPC), an ideal particle size distribution curve according to modified Andreasen’s formula has been produced. Analysis of particle size distribution showed that blending the cement with superfine cement (SFC) and/or condensed silica fume (CSF) would make the curve closer to the ideal curve, hinting that a better packing could be achieved. Packing densities of the cementitious materials were then directly obtained through a wet packing method, and results verified that cementitious materials mix blended with SFC and/or CSF own higher packing densities.