ABSTRACT

By using mineral admixtures in concrete it is possible to have a favorable influence on many properties through either pure­ ly physical effects associated with the presence of very fíne particles or physico-chemical effects associated with pozzolanic and cementitious reactions, which result in pore-size re­ duction and grain-size reduction phenomena, as discussed below. Among the properties that are favorably affected are the Theological behavior of fresh concrete mixtures, and the strength and durability of hardened concrete. Resistance to chemical attacks and thermal cracking are the two aspects of concrete durability that can be improved significantly by the incorporation of mineral admixtures.