Development of High Strength Concrete Using Silica Funnies

Abstract

In view of the rapidly developing technology and owing to the exploration of new fields in civil engineering, the construction works are subjected to continuous developments through out the world. In the field of civil engineering there is a vast room to explore new methodologies, to locate cheap but strong construction materials and to device ways and procedures that render the construction works as economical and as safe as possible, because the scope of civil engineering works shall never end in this fast developing world. Recent developments in concrete technology, especially during the last decade have made it possible to produce the High Strength Concrete (HSC) on commercial scale. The advantages of using high strength concrete are numerous, as it can economize variety of construction works such as long span bridges, off-shore structures and high rise buildings. The concrete mixtures contain high cement contents, low water cement ratio, high quality aggregates and several admixtures (such as a super plasticizer and Pozzolana). When properly mixed, consolidated and cured, such mixtures give high strength, durability and excellent performance. . Ordinarily, concrete of substantially higher compressive strength is used for pre-stressed structures than for those constructed of ordinary reinforced concrete. Almost all pre-stressed construction in the world at present is designed for a compressive strength well above 5000 psi. Much of the high strength concrete currently is being used in buildings where the question of durability is minor. The question, however, cannot be avoided in exposed highway structures. Service records of non- air-entrained high-strength concrete exposed to freezing are not conclusive. Hence, this report synthesizes the available knowledge on the subject. Its aim is to provide guidance to those who wish to use high-strength concrete in typical applications and to indicate where further information is needed.