Investigating the Influence of Initial Water pH on Concrete Strength Gain Using a Sensors and Sclerometric Test Combination

Abstract

Concrete strength gain can be significantly affected by the initial characteristics of the raw materials. Unfortunately, information on the potential influence of the initial water pH on concrete strength gain is still scarce. In this study, the potential effects of the initial water pH on concrete strength gain were investigated using a combination of sensors and a sclerometric test. The impact of initial pH on the strength gain process was investigated using three distinct pH values (4.0, 7.0, and 12). The primary variables examined were pH variations over time, internal temperature, and strength gain. The problem was further examined using a number of statistical techniques, including Single-way Analysis of Variance, Scheffé’s approach, and Correlation Matrixes. When the temperature data from 4.0, 7.0, and 12 pH values were put through the Analysis of Variance, a p-value of 2.4 × 10−261 was retrieved. Additionally, when the strength gain data from 4.0, 7.0, and 12 pH values were subjected to the Analysis of Variance, a p-value of 2.9 × 10−168 was retrieved. The results showed that the differences in the list data retrieved from the investigated pH values were statistically significant. Based on the results, we can state that the initial pH level in the mixing water can have noticeably varied consequences in terms of the strength gain of the concrete and should be carefully considered during the preparation process of concrete. The findings retrieved from this study provide a piece of useful information in the construction field, especially with concrete strength management.