Effect of Relative Proportion of Pozzolana on Compressive Strength of Concrete Under Different Curing Conditions

In this experimental and analytic research, the effect of curing regime on various combinations of silica fume and fly ash was investigated in terms of development of compressive strength. Over 24 mixes were prepared with the water-to-binder ratios of 0.45, 0.35 and 0.25 and with differing percentage of additives used as a combination of 2 or 3 binders. The specimens were subjected to five different curing regimes ranging from continuously water cured to continuously air cured. Results show that it is economical to use a combination of silica fume and fly ash rather than using only silica fume for attaining the same strength level. Poor curing condition adversely affect the strength characteristics of pozzolanic concrete than that of OPC concrete. For silica fume concrete, it is necessary to apply water curing for the initial 7 days to explore pozzolainc activity but it is imperative to cure the fly ash concrete for an extended period to utilize its full potential.