Research into Preparation and Performance of Fast-Hardening RPC Mixed with Straw

Abstract

Based on its characteristics of early strength, good toughness, and excellent mechanical and impact resistance, steel fiber-reinforced fast-hardening reactive powder concrete (RPC) is expected to become an alternative material used in the rapid repair of marine concrete structures. However, the steel fibers have also caused corrosion problems in coastal environments. To make doped fiber fast-hardening RPC more adaptable for use in ocean engineering, this study prepares fast-hardening RPC mixed with straw and studied the effects of straw content and curing age on its slump flow, setting time, and mechanical performance (flexural strength, compressive strength, and flexural toughness). The effects of straw addition on the compactness and hydration products of fast-hardening RPC were studied through macro- (ultrasonic analysis) and micro-scopic analysis (electron microscopy scanning and X-ray diffraction patterns). The straw content mentioned in this paper refers to the percentage of straw in relation to RPC volume. The results showed that straw reduced the fluidity of RPC slurry by 10.5–11.5% compared to concrete without straw, and it accelerated the initial setting of RPC slurry. When the straw content accounted for 1% of RPC volume, the setting rate was the fastest, with a increasing rate being 6–18%. Compared to concrete without straw, the flexural and compressive strength of fast-hardening RPC was enhanced by 3.7–30.5%. When the content was either 3% or 4%, the mechanical properties improved. Moreover, when the straw content accounted for 4% of RPC volume, the flexural toughness was the highest, with the increase rate being 21.4% compared to concrete without straw. Straw reduces the compactness of fast-hardening RPC.