6 Cement and concrete as materials: changes in properties, production and performance

This chapter records the changes in cement and concrete as materials since 1900, in terms of their properties, production and performance. While largely material orientated, the influence of changes in design standards and construction practices is also covered. A major factor is increase in strength; as this has occurred, the emphasis in design has switched to durability, although an integrated approach — design, materials and construction quality — has not yet fully evolved. It is shown that change has been triggered by a range of factors, including production methods, customer demand for improved performance, construction methods and changes in fashion.

• Synopsis

• Introduction

• Cement standards

• Changes in the properties of Portland cement: the effect on concrete

• The use of PFA and GGBS in concrete

• Concrete: impact of changes in design standards and construction practices

• Durability and whole-life costing

• High-alumina cement (HAC) concrete

• Concluding remarks

• References