Fine Ceramic Powder – Supplementary Cementitious Material for Mortar Mix Design

Waste ceramic powder originating from the contemporary hollow bricks production is studied as a supplementary cementitious material in mortar composition. For the ceramic powder and cement, the measurement of chemical composition is done using XRF analysis. XRD device is used for the amorphous phase content measurement. The particle size distribution of ceramics and cement is accessed on a laser diffraction principle. Pozzolanic activity of ceramic powder was determined by the modified Chapelle test. The blended binder containing ceramic powder in an amount of 8, 16, and 24% of mass of cement is used for the preparation of mortars which are then characterized using the measurement of basic physical properties and mechanical properties. Among the basic physical properties, bulk density, matrix density and total open porosity are measured. The mechanical resistivity of mortars with blended binder is accessed by the compressive strength, flexural strength, and dynamic Young’s modulus measurement. Additionally, pore-size distribution of the developed mortars is analyzed using mercury intrusion porosimetry. Experimental data shows that an application of 24% waste ceramics in the blended binder provides sufficient mechanical resistivity of the mortar.

Fracture Properties of Cement Pastes Modified by Fine Ground Ceramic Powder

Paper deals with utilization of fine ground ceramic powder as a supplementary cement addition. Present work follows previous research focused on the basic physical and hygric properties of cement composites with ceramic powder application. Present work introduce rheological, mechanical and fracture properties of cement pastes investigated during maturation at time 7 days. Presented data are added by results of pore characteristic having essential impact to final properties. Obtained data confirm previous assumption of retarding of hydration process, but final fracture properties indicate increased durability of cement pastes with fine ceramic powder addition.

Basic and Hygric Properties of Concrete Containing Fine Ceramic Powder

The motivation for utilization of active admixtures in concrete lies primarily in a positive effect on properties of hardened concrete with regard to its durability. Fine parts complement the grain size distribution curve, but also due to subsequent hydration arise phases with better resistance to aggressive substances from surrounding environment. Process of pozzolanic reaction is also associated with a reduction in open capillary porosity, causing a gradual reduction of the permeability of concrete. The paper presents an experimental program focused on the monitoring of evolution of basic and hygric properties of concrete with fine ceramic powder addition.