Abstract:
An application of a depth-sensing indentation (DSI) system to characterize properties of hardened cement paste is described. The test method developed, based on the microhardness testing concept, was implemented on a universal testing frame. Preliminary experiments were dedicated to evaluate efficiency of mineral additives in cement paste from Vickers hardness data. A suitable method of specimen preparation for microhardness tests was elaborated and successfully applied. The investigation revealed a clearly linear correlation between Vickers
hardness and water-to-cement (w/c) ratio. An evaluation of the efficiency of mineral additives in cement paste was possible assuming a criterion of equal Vickers hardness. The DSI test method seems to be a valuable method for studying the bulk properties of cementitious composites
Keywords:
Microstructure, Cement paste, Metakaolin, Micromechanics, Water-to-cement ratio
Affiliations:
| Glinicki M. | - | IPPT PAN |
| Zieliński M. | - | other affiliation |
