Assessment of Compressive Strength and Durability of Silica Fume-base Concrete in Acidic Environment

Abstract

Although concrete utilization in the construction and building sectors is widespread in the world, the risk of concrete degradation especially in the harsh environments still exists. This research deals with the impacts of adding silica fume (SF) into Portland cement on compressive strength and durability properties of concrete exposing to sulfuric acid. Three concrete grades C15, C25 and C45 were chosen with various percentages of silica fume. The effects of the curing environment (tap water and aggressive acid) on the compressive strength of 360 specimens were studied. Also, the concrete resistance against acid attack was assessed by determining the losses of weight and compressive strength of the specimens. The result of this research revealed that high water-cement ratio meaningfully influenced the concrete performance through compressive strength and loss of weight. Silica fume improves the compressive strength and durability of SF-based concrete compared to the normal concrete at all ages.