A numerical investigation into the influence of the interfacial transition zone on the permeability of partially saturated cement paste between aggregate surfaces

Kai Li*, Piet Stroeven, Martijn Stroeven, Lambertus J. Sluys

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

32 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The interfacial transition zones (ITZs) are supposed to promote fluid transport through concrete. As a consequence, one would expect an increase in permeability with an increasing aggregate fraction. This has been shown in some experiments, however, the opposite effect is observed as well. The permeability ratio of ITZ to matrix seems to be a key parameter in interpreting this controversial phenomenon. A higher ratio favors the flow of water through the interface zone. This work aims at studying this ratio at various conditions (i.e., hydration degree, water/cement ratio, particle size range and water saturation degree) using a numerical model, so that the influence of the ITZ on the permeability of cementitious composites can be better understood. The findings presented in this paper can provide a new perspective on controversial experimental results as to the effect of the ITZ on transport capacity.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)99-108
Number of pages10
JournalCement and Concrete Research
Volume102
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2017

Keywords

  • Concrete (E)
  • Interfacial transition zone (B)
  • Modelling (E)
  • Permeability (C)
  • Water saturation degree

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