Effect of Coarse Aggregate Types on the Microstructure of the ITZ and Durability of Concrete

Influence of aggregate types on. the impermeability and frost-resistance of concrete with different water/cement ratios were investigated, as well as the pore structure and hydrates of the ITZ. The results show that, concrete prepared with a high water/cement ratio and using granite aggregate, presents the highest values of chloride diffusion coefficient and the lowest numbers of freeze-thaw cycles. Whereas concrete prepared with a low water/cement ratio and using limestone aggregate, obtains the similar durability results. The limestone aggregate with a rough surface and higher water absorption, has a tight bonding with the cement paste. However, the granite and basalt aggregate that formed by magma eruption, have higher activity. The XRD results demonstrate that more clinkers participate in the hydration of cement, therefore, resulting in a denser ITZ. In order to improve the concrete durability, the basalt aggregate both with higher activity and rough surface is consider optimal.