Effect of High Temperature on Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of HSFCM

Abstract

A new type of composite cement-based cementing material—high-strength fast cementing material (HSFCM)—will be widely used in marine engineering projects such as submarine tunnels. However, the influence of fire and other high temperature conditions on its material properties have not been explored in previous studies. Mechanical tests and microstructure observations of HSFCM were carried out, and the strength and deformation characteristics, microstructure and composition evolution of HSFCM after high temperature treatment were discussed. After high temperature treatment, the compressive strength of HSFCM deteriorated. The compressive strength of HSFCM decreased by more than half at 400 °C. The peak strain increased at 200 °C with the increase of temperature, and decreased at 400~600 °C with the increase of temperature. High temperature reduces the stiffness of HSFCM, and the elastic modulus decreases with increasing temperature. The influence of high temperature on the microstructure of HSFCM is mainly shown in the increase and enlargement of pores in three-dimensional space, the development of micro-cracks and the thermal decomposition of cementing material into stable oxides without cementing effect. The microscopic changes of HSFCM are in good agreement with the mechanical test results.

Keywords

• cement-based material
• high temperature
• indoor test
• mechanical properties
• microanalysis