Optimization of high strength limestone filler cement mortars

The effect of limestone microfiller replacement of cement on the mechanical performance and cost effectiveness of low w/c ratio superplasticized portland cement mortars was investigated. The experiments were designed based on a so-called uniform-precision factorial plan. Cement pastes of different w/b ratios and incorporating various proportions of limestone powder and/or silica fume were designed to have a constant flow time. Mortars corresponding to the different cement pastes were made, their 1, 3, 7, 28 and 91 day compressive strengths were measured, and their cost effectiveness was analyzed. The statistical approach used permitted the calculation of the isoresponse curves for the parameters under study over the experimental domain and the optimization of their effect.