A Critical Analysis Of The Development Of Strength In High-Performance Concrete: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Strength is an important characteristic of high performance concrete (HPC). The article explains how the water-to-binder (w/b) ratio, curing procedure, superabsorbent polymer (SAP), expansion-promoting additive (EPA), shrinkage-reducing additive (SRA), and supplemental cementitious materials (SCMs) affect the durability of high-performance concrete (HPC). Fly ash tends to reduce early age strength, however this can be compensated by mixing it with nanosilica or other admixtures, as long as adequate levels of SCMs are present in the mix. The strength is maximised by reducing the aggregate size while increasing the aggregate strength. Fibres frequently have little effect on compressive strength, however they usually improve flexural and splitting tensile values. Using specific SCMs, the negative impacts of high temperature curing on later age strength can be reduced. When the w/b ratio is reduced, both strength and autogenous shrinkage (AS) rise. Although SAP and SRA hybridisation, as well as appropriate management of excess SAP added water, have the potential to increase strength, additional study is needed.