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Published on: June 27, 2018
Reliability prediction of alkali-activated mortar during flexural loading using Weibull analysis
Yuyun Tajunnisa1, Mohammad Idris Rasuli2, Akifumi Yamamura3
1Department of Civil Infrastructure Engineering, Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember, Indonesia.
Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) demonstrate superior robustness and fewer fractures compared to ordinary Portland cement (OPC) mortars. Weibull analysis confirms AAMs as a more reliable alternative for sustainable construction materials.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Civil Engineering
- Sustainable Construction
Background:
- Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) offer a sustainable alternative to ordinary Portland cement (OPC), reducing CO2 emissions.
- Characterizing the mechanical properties and robustness of AAMs is crucial for their wider adoption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the robustness and fracture behavior of various AAM mortars with OPC mortars.
- To utilize Weibull analysis for quantifying the reliability of AAMs.
Main Methods:
- Flexural tests were conducted on four AAM mortar compositions (fly ash, slag, microsilica activated by NaOH and Na2SiO3) and OPC control.
- Acoustic emission sensors recorded the fracture process during flexural testing.
- Weibull analysis was applied to assess the robustness and reliability of the tested mortars.
Main Results:
- Weibull analysis indicated that AAM mortars exhibited greater robustness than OPC mortars.
- AAMs showed a tendency for fewer and less severe fractures under flexural loading compared to OPC.
- Specific AAM formulations (AAM-IV, AAM-V, AAM-VI, AAM-VII) were evaluated against OPC.
Conclusions:
- AAMs present a more robust and reliable alternative to OPC, with improved fracture characteristics.
- The findings support the use of AAMs in construction for enhanced durability and reduced environmental impact.
- Weibull analysis is an effective tool for evaluating the mechanical reliability of novel cementitious materials.
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