Experimental Investigations on Mechanical Properties of High Strength Concrete by using Supplementary Cementing Materials

Portland cement has been a very satisfactory hydraulic binder for structural applications for a long time now. However there are many new issues stemming from its ever increasing use. Sustainable development today demands development of new concrete technologies, which use less natural resources and energy, and generate less CO₂, without compromising on strength and durability properties. Supplementary Cementing Materials (SCMs) such as Flyash, Blast Furnace Slag, Silica Fume and Metakaoline etc., either in singly or in combination, in development of alternate binder systems is thus of economic and ecological significance. In the recent years, use of High Performance Concrete (HPC) in the construction industry as got momentum. For designing HPC, both SCMs and Superplasticizers are essential for the improvement of Workability and Mechanical Properties. The paper presents experimental studies conducted on two grades of HPC mixes of M50 and M60 using mineral and chemical admixtures in various proportions. Overall, the paper highlights the usage of admixtures to achieve high strength concrete mixes and from the experimental investigation it is clear that mineral admixtures contribute effectively a lot not only for achieving durability, also high strength.