Mix Design and Strength Characteristics of Reactive Powder Concrete

Abstract

Mix Design And Strength Characteristics Of Reactive Powder Concrete (RPC) is composed of very fine powders (cement, sand, and silica fume), steel fibres (optional) and superplasticizer. A very dense matrix is achieved, and this compactness gives RPC ultra-high strength and durability properties. A comparison of the physical, mechanical and durability properties of RPC and high performance concrete (HPC) shows that RPC possesses better (Both compressive and flexural strength) results compared to HPC. HPC leads the way to achievement of the maximum compressive strength of the order say 120-150 Mpa or so. However, at such a level of strength, the coarse aggregate becomes the weakest link in concrete. In order to increase the compressive strength of concrete even further, the only way is to remove coarse aggregate.

Conclusion

• The addition of Steel Fibres in Reactive Powder Concrete will give more strength than High Performance Concrete
• For dealing with Steel Fibres in Reactive Powder Concrete and Silica Fumes in High Performance Concrete there is a necessity of suitable super plasticiser to achieve workability.
• The average workability increases in slump of concrete with increase in silica fume percentages from 0% to 20% in both High Performance Concrete and Reactive Powder Concrete.