Field Assessment of Materials for Use in Ultra-High-Performance Concrete

ABSTRACT: IllinoisRocstar LLC and Purdue University propose a framework that enables field assessment of particle size and shape for use in ultra-high performance concrete. We will implement portable scanning approaches for particle size measurement and combine this with high performance computer modeling to optimize altering particle size proportions. Critically, the framework will be implemented to accommodate and maximize the use of local materials. This project will build on recent advancements made in particle size detection, with the goal of deploying a small testing unit that can provide information on particle sizes. Formulating UHPC using indigenous materials requires that the fabricator have the capability to quickly assess the particle sizes and shapes available in local constituent materials, and to evaluate these materials using algorithms that optimize the proportions of these materials to achieve the requisite high density. This project will utilize existing IllinoisRocstar software modules to optimize particle packing and material response for each geographic location, based on the specifics of locally available materials. By taking this approach, fewer materials will need to be"shipped in specially"to formulate a UHPC. This approach can be extended to include fibers and other forms, which can enable toughened UHPC to be formulated and deployed. BENEFIT: IllinoisRocstar LLC and Purdue University propose a framework that enables field assessment of particle size and shape for use in ultra-high performance concrete. We will implement portable scanning approaches for particle size measurement and combine this with high performance computer modeling to optimize altering particle size proportions. Critically, the framework will be implemented to accommodate and maximize the use of local materials. This project will build on recent advancements made in particle size detection, with the goal of deploying a small testing unit that can provide information on particle sizes. Formulating UHPC using indigenous materials requires that the fabricator have the capability to quickly assess the particle sizes and shapes available in local constituent materials, and to evaluate these materials using algorithms that optimize the proportions of these materials to achieve the requisite high density. This project will utilize existing IllinoisRocstar software modules to optimize particle packing and material response for each geographic location, based on the specifics of locally available materials. By taking this approach, fewer materials will need to be"shipped in specially"to formulate a UHPC. This approach can be extended to include fibers and other forms, which can enable toughened UHPC to be formulated and deployed.