ELECTRICAL-CONDUCTIVITY OF CONCRETE CONTAINING SILICA FUME

The influence of silica fume on concrete properties represents an impo rtant technical research. In general, silica fume tends to improve bot h mechanical characteristics and durability of concrete. Thus the elec trical properties of concrete containing silica fume can be studied to clarify its physical performance during hydration. The electrical con ductivity of neat cement, mortar and concrete pastes was measured duri ng setting and hardening. The ordinary Portland cement was partially r eplaced by different amounts of silica fume by weight. The changes in the electrical conductivity were reported during setting and hardening after gauging with water. The results of this study showed that the e lectrical conductivity can be used as an indication for the setting ch aracteristics as well as the structural changes of the hardened pastes made with and without silica fume.