Microstructural evolution of cemented paste backfill: Mercury intrusion porosimetry test results

The microstructural evolution of different cemented paste backfill (CPB) samples made with ground silica was evaluated using mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP). The influence of three binders (OPC, OPC with fly ash, and OPC with blast furnace slag) and of three types of water (one deionised and two sulphated) on the microstructure was studied over the curing time. Uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) tests were also performed to relate MIP results to the backfill mechanical strength. Among other findings, the MIP analyses indicate that the slag based binder combined with a mixing water having a high sulphate content (of 7549 ppm) showed the highest percentage of fine pores and the highest strength. This behaviour is related to the potential precipitation of sulphate phases in pores, which may contribute to strength enhancement. Based on MIP pore size distributions and UCS results, the authors propose a general relationship applicable for CPB.