Physical and mechanical properties of concrete repair materials in dry and hot-dry environment

Abstract

A variety of repair materials is available in the market. It is often difficult to select a suitable repair material for a given condition. Various researchers use different evaluation methods, but the required specifications are not established. The main objective of this work is to study the physical and mechanical properties of ready-mixed repair mortars available in the Algerian local market. The experimental study was carried out on three types of repair mortars: cement-based mortars, with and without fibers. The properties of the repair mortars at hardened state are analyzed for compressive, flexural and bond strengths, capillary water absorption, and shrinkage. The effect of humid curing using Hessian regularly humidified, on the compressive strength in hot and dry environment was also studied. The results of the experimental study showed that the repair mortar containing silica fume and synthetic fibers gave a better strength in all curing environments. The study showed also the negative effect of hot and dry environment on all types of ready-mixed repair mortars, and demonstrated the importance of humid curing during early age.

Keywords:

• repair mortars
• compressive strength
• flexural strength
• shrinkage
• water absorption
• curing
• dry
• hot-dry environment