Influence of water content on ultrasonic pulse-echo measurements through high volume fly ash cement paste-physicomechanical characterization

Abstract

In this study, physicomechanical characterization is evaluated using ultrasonic pulse - echo measurements through high- volume fly ash (HVFA) cement paste. The composites were tested at different water-content levels to infer their influence on the pulse - echo measurements. To achieve different water content levels, samples were dried in an oven between 60 and 105 degrees C at 6-, 12-, and 24-h intervals. Physical ( dry unit weight, apparent specific gravity, porosity at 7 and 28 days) and mechanical (unconfined compression test at 7 and 28 days) measures were performed. The research indicates that the degree of saturation significantly affects the ultrasonic pulse - echo of HVFA cement paste. The empirical relations of the physical and mechanical properties with ultrasonic pulse velocity are highly correlated.