This study is concerned with the compatibility of different chemical admixtures with Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC³), by evaluating the rheological properties and compressive strength of pastes. LC³ is a promising alternative to ordinary Portland cement for more sustainable concrete products. Whilst it offers a lower carbon footprint, its interaction with chemical admixtures in terms of fresh and hardened state performance requires careful examination. Identifying what admixtures and dosages show good compatibility with LC³ is key to making the most of these materials. In this study, the rheological properties of pastes with LC³ and admixtures at different ratios are characterised with a viscometer. Their compressive strength and its development with time is also analysed. Understanding how these properties are influenced by the type and dosage of chemical admixtures, the water-to-binder ratio and the LC³ composition offers valuable information for the optimisation of self-compacting concrete (SCC) incorporating these materials. An experimental programme based on a fractioned factorial design has been used to determine the composition of the pastes to be tested. The statistical analysis of the experimental results identifies and quantifies the key interactions affecting the pastes’ performance. Multiple linear regression is used to develop equations to evaluate the compatibility of the different compositions tested. The statistical models obtained will enable the development of optimised LC³ mixes for enhanced workability and strength, whilst reducing embodied carbon and cost.
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)