Developing an ANN model to simulate ASTM C1012-95 test considering different cement types and different pozzolanic additives

Abstract EN

The primary factors affecting concrete sulfate resistance are the chemistry of Portland cement and the replacement level of mineral admixtures [1].

In order to investigate the effect of those on the sulfate attack the testing program in the literature involved the testing of different mortar mixes using the standardized test, ASTM C1012-95.

ASTM C1012-95 has been widely used by researchers to study the sulfate resistance of cement based materials by exposing 1\1\11 in.

mortar specimens to 50 g/L Na2SO4 or MgSO4 solution [2].

However, there are deficiencies in this test method including lengthy measuring period, insensitivity of the measurement tool to the progression of sulfate attack, the effect of curing and the effect of the pH change during the time in the solution [3–5].

In this research a study is presented to build a model by ANN equivalent to ASTM C1012-95.

The input parameter was obtained from 16 different mortars according to ASTM C1012-95.

Plain Portland cement mortars, mortars with cement combined with fly ash (FA), and mortars with cement combined with slag (GGBFS) were tested by using ASTM C1012-95.

Four cements, two ratio of FA, and one GGBFS were obtained from the literature.

ASTM C1012-95 modeling techniques can help us understand the influence of aggressive environments on the concrete performance more readily, faster, and accurately.

Such an understanding improves the decision making process in every stage of construction and maintenance and will help in better administration of resource