Effect of Basalt Aggregate Size Distribution and Specific Surface Area on High-Performance Concrete
Keywords:
Basalt aggregate, Specific surface area, Concrete mix design, Mechanical propertiesAbstract
Optimizing concrete mix design requires understanding how coarse aggregate size distribution and specific surface area (SSA) modulate mechanical response and durability. Using basalt aggregates (9.5, 12.5, 19, and 25 mm) characterized by laser diffraction and BET, this study shows that mixtures with larger aggregates (19–25 mm) achieved up to ≈17% higher 28‑day compressive strength (37.93 MPa for 25 mm vs. 32.39 MPa for 9.5 mm) and ≈18% lower water absorption (1.90% for 19 mm vs. 2.31% for 9.5 mm), while mixtures with smaller aggregates (9.5–12.5 mm) exhibited ≈56% greater flexural strength (4.87 MPa vs. 3.13 MPa), ≈38% higher splitting tensile (4.23 vs. 3.07 MPa), and ≈49% higher shear strength (4.04 vs. 2.72 MPa). Pull‑out resistance increased with aggregate size (≈48% higher for 25 mm vs. 9.5 mm), consistent with enhanced mechanical anchorage. BET confirmed an inverse SSA–size relation (≈580→≈200 cm²/g), clarifying ITZ area demand and paste requirements. These outcomes provide a rational basis for tailoring aggregate gradation to balance compressive capacity, flexural/tensile response, and transport resistance for durable, resource‑efficient concrete design.
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