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Reactive powder concrete (RPC) is an ultra high strength cement-based material. Cement and silica fume (SF) content of RPC are generally rather high compared to the conventional concrete. The aim of this study is to decrease the cement and SF content of RPC using with fly ash (FA) and/or ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS). The effect of these mineral admixtures on compressive strength of RPC has been investigated under autoclave curing. In the first stage, the effect of autoclave time and SF content on compressive strength was determined. In the second stage, SF was gradually decreased and cement was replaced with FA and/or GGBFS at different proportions. The microstructure was investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Test results indicate that, the utilization of FA and/or GGBFS in RPC is possible without significant mechanical performance loss. SEM micrographs revealed the tobermorite having different morphology. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Some mechanical and durability properties of composite material produced with by-products of Orhaneli power plant (flue gas desulfurization sludge, fly ash and bottom ash), cement and hydrated lime were investigated. To improve the mechanical properties (compressive and flexural strength) of this material, steam curing was applied and the effect of chemical admixture (high water reducing agent) was investigated. Some physical properties and water resistance of the mixtures were also determined. Furthermore, microstructure of the specimens was investigated using scanning electron microscopy. Finally, to produce construction elements, prototypes of building blocks were manufactured by using some of these mixtures. All kind of power plant wastes (flue gas desulfurization sludge, fly ash, bottom ash) can be utilized with these mixtures, which consist of 90% of coal combustion byproducts. It seems to be a promising material for composite construction elements such as building blocks. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.