STRENGTH DEVELOPMENT OF MORTAR AND CONCRETE PREPARED BY THE ‘SAND ENVELOPED WITH CEMENT’ METHOD

Abstract This paper introduces a new way of investigating the physico-chemical mechanisms which can explain the increased compressive strength generated by the application of a new mixing technique referred to as the "Sand Enveloped with Cement" (S.E.C.). In particular, the paper demonstrates that the cause of strength increase is not due to a mechanical effect of the densification of the paste-aggregate interface, but due to a thermal activation of the cement hydration. Keywords: Mixing methods, S.E.C., experimental plans, cement paste aggregate interface, short-term compressive strength.