Determination of the effect of volcanic pumice replacement on macro void development for blended cement mortars by computerized tomography

In this study, the effect of volcanic pumice replacements with different ratios on the macro void development was observed using CT for a period of 100 days. The cured mortar specimens were imaged by X-ray CT on different days of the experiment. Utilizing Hounsfield Unit values as guides, void volumes and ratios were identified and measured by Matlab software. SEM images supported the X-ray CT results. It is shown that X-ray CT analysis is capable of assessing the development of macro voids in the mortar specimens.

► Computerized tomography is an effective way to monitor macro void development. ► Each void tends to reduce in size differently from the other voids in the mortar. ► SEM Images support the results of CT in regard to macro void developments. ► Macro voids in VT replacement mortars show more tendency toward reducing in size.