The Effect of Fineness Modulus and Seawater Curing on the Mechanical Properties of High Strength Concrete

Abstract

Concrete is the material of choice for most buildings in harsh climates, particularly in areas where the sea and coast are inextricably linked. Oceanic conditions can be highly challenging, making development in regions constantly exposed to the ocean a common difficulty. This study aimed to investigate the influence of curing methods and the fine aggregate modulus on the mechanical properties of high-strength concrete. Specifically, the study examined the curing processes of concrete cured with both freshwater and seawater. Three variations of the fine aggregate modulus were used: 6, 6.5, and 7.2. Concrete samples were cured in both seawater and freshwater, with three samples for each variation. Mechanical parameters, including compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength, were assessed according to ASTM standards. The testing was conducted when the samples reached 28 days of age. The results showed that both the fine aggregate modulus and the curing method significantly affect the concrete’s strength. Notably, as the fine aggregate modulus increased, the strength of the concrete decreased. Additionally, after 28 days, no signs of seawater infiltration were observed in the high-strength concrete samples.