Effects of technological parameters on permeability estimation of partially saturated cement paste by a DEM approach

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

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

19 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

In this study, a numerical approach developed in our group is used to assess the permeability of partially saturated cement paste based on a discrete element modelling (DEM) technique. The relationship between saturation degree and permeability is found to be in good agreement with experimental observations. Also, outcomes of a systematic study of the effects of technological parameters (i.e., hydration period, water/cement ratio and cement particle size range) on the permeability of partially saturated specimens follow expected trends. Moreover, permeability is found to be correlated to effective porosity. This is a sound basis for investigating the impact of the interfacial transition zone on water and gas permeability. Effects of partial saturation are demonstrated different for water and gas transport. Possible mechanisms underlying these permeability characteristics are discussed in this paper.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)222-231
Number of pages10
JournalCement and Concrete Composites
Volume84
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Nov 2017

Keywords

  • Cement paste
  • Discrete element method
  • Interface transition zone
  • Permeability
  • Technological parameters
  • Water saturation degree

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