Use of a particle packing model to produce HPC at optimum cement content

This paper brings out the details of an experimental investigation carried out to produce high performance concrete (HPC) at optimum cement content. A software, LISA, based on particle packing model (Andreassen's approach), was used for adjusting the granulometry of the constituent materials. Cement replacement materials (CRMs) such as quartz powder, limestone powder; fly ash and microsilica were considered in the investigation. Mixtures were proportioned with low water content (144 l/m 3 and 120 l/m 3). Sufficient workability was obtained by using a superplasticiser. Influence on mechanical properties was ascertained by determination of compressive and flexural strengths. Durability was determined indirectly by rapid chloride penetration test and by water penetration test. It was concluded that a part of cement content could be replaced by mineral fillers. By adopting the "Optimal particle packing" mixture design approach along with the proper selection of CRM and superplasticiser, it was possible in this investigation to design sufficiently workable concrete mixtures with cement content less than 300 kg/m 3, to achieve a 28-day cube compressive strength of 70-80 MPa along with very high durability (total charge passed in RCPT less than 500 coulombs).