Diatomaceous earth as a functional additive

Improved freeze-thaw resistance, strength and durability of concrete products

Concrete needs to exhibit a high freeze-thaw resistance to ensure long service lives, particularly in the case of concrete products used in road construction. This characteristic is primarily achieved by adding a suitable air void system (using surfactants or hollow microspheres).

A research project was initiated to investigate the application potential of natural and calcined diatomaceous earth as a concrete additive. Diatomaceous earth is also referred to as diatomite, kieselgur, natural/amorphous silica, or moler earth. This porous lightweight mineral based on silicon dioxide (SiO2) is...

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Issue 10/2015

Effect of Calcium Nitrate on the freeze-thaw-resistance of concrete

Abstract Concrete in cold climates is not only exposed to cold weather while concreting but also to freeze-thaw cycles during its lifetime. Thus not only the concrete production needs to be adjusted...

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Issue 02/2016 Transferability of laboratory test results

Determining freeze-thaw resistance of precast products for road pavements under real-life conditions

Since February 2005, the freeze-thaw resistance of concrete pavers had to be determined in the modified slab test in accordance with DIN EN 1338. Some clients favor the CDF method even though there...

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Issue 02/2013 Current findings with respect to the XF2 freeze/thaw test method

Freeze/thaw resistance at moderate water saturation levels

Generally accepted, internationally recognized methods (CIF and CDF) exist for testing the freeze/thaw resistance of concrete at high water saturation rates irrespective of the simultaneous action of...

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Issue 12/2019

Assessment of frost and freeze-thaw damage to concrete pavers (Part 1)

High weather resistance of concrete pavers is crucial wherever paved surfaces are exposed to frequent freeze-thaw cycles. In this respect, it should be noted that the climatic conditions prevailing in...

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Issue 01/2020

Assessment of frost and freeze-thaw damage to concrete pavers (Part 2)

The first part of this article dealt with the different patterns associated with freeze-thaw damage, the impact of cracks occurring in products, and the influence of installation and use on the onset...

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