Optimization and behavior of high-performance concrete in structural applications
"The dissertation presented here discusses research to develop improved methods of material selection for the production of high-performance concrete and to examine the behavior of these materials in structural applications. The results of the research have been submitted for publication in five conference proceedings and technical journals. The first paper investigates a particle packing model for determination of the optimal proportions of materials for high performance concrete. Since concrete with higher strength and durability will have a higher packing density, this research used particle packing to optimize a mix to achieve the maximum density. The model was used to produce high-strength concrete with a reduced amount of cement. The second paper studies the shrinkage behavior of high-strength concrete subjected to accelerated curing. It shows that shrinkage is reduced with increasing curing temperatures and presents correction factors for current prediction equations. The third and fourth papers, published as a two-part series, examine the behavior of prestressed concrete girders produced with self-consolidating concrete and subjected to elevated compressive fiber stress levels. Members were monitored to examine the prestress loss behavior and the camber development over time, then tested to failure for prediction comparison. Flexural behavior was predicted with relative accuracy, but the shear behavior showed the need for additional test data. The final paper examines the effect of reduced concrete elastic modulus values on the performance of prestressed concrete girders. At maximum span lengths, the increase in live load deflection over allowable limits is reason for concern when reduced elastic modulus values are found"--Abstract, page iv.
Missouri University of Science and Technology
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