Freeze-thaw performance of low carbon self-healing concrete pavements containing superabsorbent polymers

Abstract

Freeze-thaw resistance of concrete pavements exposed to de-icing salts is a key durability performance criteria. This is particularly challenging in light of recent drivers to develop low carbon concrete pavement. This paper presents the results of a study that explored such durability performance on rigid pavements including conventional concrete and roller compacted concrete (RCC) mixes. In some mixes, Portland cement (PC) was partially replaced by 50% ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) to develop low carbon concrete (LCC). Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) were used at 0.3% by weight of the binder in some concrete mixes to minimise or eliminate freeze-thaw damage. Compressive strength and freeze-thaw resistance assessed through mass scaling of specimens, were evaluated. The best freeze-thaw resistance performance was achieved in low carbon self-healing concrete mixes and mass scaling in standard concretes was reduced by 45% compared to the reference concrete. The inclusion of SAPs into the RCC mixes had insignificant impact on the mass scaling performance.