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Performance and Durability of Chalcedonite Reactive Powder Concrete
Joanna Julia Sokołowska1, Piotr Woyciechowski1, Szymon Żerek2
1Department of Building Materials Engineering, Institute of Building Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, 00-637 Warsaw, Poland.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|September 27, 2025
Summary
This study introduces novel high-performance concrete using chalcedonite aggregates, demonstrating superior strength and durability. Thermal treatment significantly enhances compressive strength, showing promising results for advanced construction materials.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Civil Engineering
- Mineralogy
Background:
- Limited research exists on chalcedonite-based concrete.
- Chalcedonite is a novel mineral aggregate for high-performance concrete (HPC).
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate technical properties and durability of novel chalcedonite-based HPC.
- Address knowledge gaps regarding chalcedonite utilization in concrete technology.
Main Methods:
- Characterized chalcedonite powder (specific gravity, particle size, surface area, morphology).
- Tested physical (density, absorption) and mechanical (strength) properties of hardened concrete.
- Assessed durability (frost, carbonation resistance) and long-term performance via curing and thermal treatment.
Main Results:
- Chalcedonite-based HPC exhibited favorable physical and mechanical properties.
- Thermal treatment significantly increased compressive strength by up to 47.1% (176.9 MPa).
- Capillary absorption tests indicated good resistance to pigment leaching, suitable for architectural applications.
Conclusions:
- Chalcedonite is a viable and high-performing aggregate for HPC.
- Thermal treatment is an effective method for enhancing concrete strength.
- Chalcedonite-based HPC shows potential for durable architectural applications, especially outdoors.
Keywords:
carbonationchalcedoniteconcretedurabilityfrost resistanceheat treatmenthigh-performance concretehigh-strength concretereactive powder concretesteam curingMore Related Videos
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