Evaluation of the characteristics of the fresh state of ultra-high performance concrete containing accelerating agent, zeolite and slag and their effect on the mechanical characteristics and long-term durability

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 civil engineering faculty, engineering campus, guilan university

2 Assistant professor, civil engineering faculty, guilan university

10.22124/jcr.2026.25044.1624

Abstract

The high potential of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) due to its early-age strength makes it suitable for applications such as rapid repairs of concrete pavements and the production of precast elements. The use of local industrial pozzolans, such as slag and zeolite, can reduce cement consumption while improving the long-term performance and durability of these concretes. In this study, to evaluate the behavior of UHPC under conditions suitable for rapid repairs in cold regions, ten mix designs were tested after optimizing the amount of accelerator, with 5%, 10%, and 15% replacement of silica fume by slag and zeolite, applied individually and in combination. Fresh-state tests included internal temperature variations and setting time, while hardened-state tests included compressive strength, electrical resistivity, and water absorption at different ages. The results showed that both pozzolans improved the fresh-state behavior by controlling setting rate and reducing hydration heat. At 28 days, mixes containing 5% replacement of slag and zeolite increased compressive strength by 6–9% and electrical resistivity by over 10% compared to the reference mix. Increasing the replacement to 15% resulted in an 8–12% reduction in strength and durability. Moreover, significant correlations were observed between mechanical properties and durability tests across different ages.

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Concrete Research

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 05 January 2026

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