Effects of Cement Type and Fly Ash on the Sulfate Attack Using ASTM C 1012

Abstract

The primary factors that affecting concrete sulfate resistance are the chemistry of the Portland cement and the chemistry and replacement level of mineral admixtures.In order to investigate the effect of those on the sulfate attack the testing program involved the testing of several different mortar mixes using the standardized test, ASTM C1012. Four different cements were evaluated including one Type I cement, two Type I-II cements, and one Type V cement. Mortar mixes were also made with mineral admixtures as each cement was combined with three different types of mineral admixtures. One Class F fly ash and one Class C fly ash was added in various percent volumetric replacement levels. The expansion measurements of mortar bars were taken and compared with expansion criteria recommended from past experience to investigate the effect of each factor.