Effect of Aggregate Type on Properties of Ultra-High-Strength Concrete

In this work, we present an analysis of natural fine aggregates' influence on the properties of ultra-high-strength concrete. The reference concrete mix was made of natural sand with the addition of fly ash and microsilica. It was assumed to obtain concrete with a very high strength without the addition of fibers and without special curing conditions, ensuring the required workability of the concrete mix corresponding to the consistency of class S3. The reference concrete mix was modified by replacing sand with granite and basalt aggregate in the same fractions. Five series of concrete mixes made with CEM I 52.5R cement were tested. Experimental investigations were carried out regarding the consistency of the concrete mix, the compressive strength, the flexural strength and the water absorption by hardened concrete. A comparative analysis of the obtained results indicated significant improvement in the concrete strength after the use of basalt aggregate. The strength of the concrete series based on basalt aggregate, BC1, allowed it to be classified as ultra-high-performance concrete. Concrete based on sand, SC1, was characterized by the lowest compressive and flexural strength but obtained the best workability of the mix and the lowest water absorption. The results presented in the paper, show a significant influence of the type of aggregate used on the mechanical and physical properties of ultra-high strength concrete.