A SUMMARY OF THE DEVELOPMENTS IN THE ABRASION RESISTANCE TESTING OF INDUSTRIAL CONCRETE FLOORS

Extensive research on the abrasion resistance of concrete floors has been carried out at Aston University. A standardised portable test apparatus and method have been developed for measuring abrasion resistance. The initial work revealed the importance of mix design, finishing techniques, curing regimes and surface treatments. Further research work was concerned with the effects of cement replacements. It was demonstrated that cement replacement materials in the concrete mix could lead to better long-term performance in floor slabs. An additional experimental study assessed the influence of the aggregate quality and hardness. It was concluded that low–grade (strength) coarse aggregates could be used to provide industrial floors for medium industrial environments although, when used as a fine aggregate, the performance is impaired and such concretes may not be appropriate for any industrial floors. The current work investigates the potential use of fibres in ground floor slabs, and gives the opportunity to explore the effects of the different fibre types and their properties on the abrasion resistance of concrete. This paper aims to present the findings of both the previous and the current research projects.

• INTRODUCTION

• DEVELOPMENT OF THE ABRASION APPARATUS

• FACTORS INFLUENCING ABRASION RESISTANCE OF CONCRETE FLOORS

• FIELD ASSESSMENT

• DEVELOPMENT OF PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

• CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS OF THE EXISTING ABRASION APPARATUS

• SUMMARY

• REFERENCES