Optimizing Local Resources in Pakistan to Produce High-Strength Reactive Powder Concrete

Abstract

Abstract A recently created cementing substance noted for its remarkable qualities is reactive powder concrete (RPC). It incorporates fine quartz sand, crushed quartz, silica fume, a low water-to-cement ratio, and a high percentage of Portland cement. In RPC, fine quartz sand completely takes the role of coarse aggregate. This study examines the effects of high-temperature curing on RPC strength while concentrating on the manufacture of RPC in Pakistan using locally accessible materials. In specifically, a compressive strength of more than 142 MPa is one of the desirable hard qualities that must be attained as the main goal. The study uses a variety of test mixtures and curing methods, including heat curing. The major emphasis is on mechanical properties such as compressive strength, split cylinder strength, and flexural strength. The study also investigates how the mechanical properties of RPC are affected by various steel fiber concentrations and curing conditions. With varying quantities of steel fiber and silica fume, more than 100 experimental mixtures are created. In comparison to silica fume levels, which range between 25% and 35% by weight of cement, steel fiber concentrations range from 0% to 3% by total volume. The results demonstrate the effects of curing at 60°C, 70°C, and 90°C. Notably, after 28 days of curing at 90°C, a compressive strength of 142 MPa is attained, suggesting a general rise in compressive strength across all curing methods with curing age.