Development of novel ultra-high-performance lightweight concrete modified with dehydrated cement powder and aerogel

AbstractCurrently, researchers emphasize creating eco-friendly, ultra-high-performance lightweight concrete (UHPLC) due to the extensive cement demand of ultra-high-performance concrete. This study aimed to develop such UHPLC by incorporating dehydrated cement powder (DCP) and aerogel (AG) at varying levels (5-25%) alongside double-hooked end steel fibers (DHE-SFs). Objectives were to enhance strength, durability, density, and thermal/acoustic properties. Results revealed reduced flowability with higher DCP and AG content. 5%, 10%, and 15% DCP and AG improved compressive strength (17.3%) via better packing and bond formation. Density decreased up to 8.3% with more DCP and AG. Modified mixtures resisted sulfate attack and exhibited increased compressive strength retention. Shrinkage reduced to 958 µ with more DCP and AG, notably in M6-DCP25-AG25. Thermal stability improved with only 75.4% mass loss at 1000 °C, while thermal conductivity decreased to 0.274 W/m·°C. Sound absorption and pore volume increased in modified mixes. X-ray diffraction analysis showed higher crystalline phases with increased DCP and AG.Keywords: thermal analysisacousticspore structureshrinkageporosity AcknowledgementsThe authors extend their appreciation to the Deanship of Scientific Research at King Khalid University for funding this work through a large group Research Project under grant number RGP2/351/44.Disclosure statementNo potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.Data availability statementThe data are available from the corresponding author upon request.Ethical approvalAll authors approve that the research was performed under all the ethical norms.Consent to publishAll authors consent to publish this paper.Additional informationFundingThe authors extend their appreciation to the Deanship of Scientific Research at King Khalid University for funding this work through a large group Research Project under grant number RGP2/351/44.