Effective solution for low shrinkage and low permeability of normal strength concrete using calcined zeolite particles

The purpose of this paper is to explore the mixture design of normal strength concrete towards low shrinkage and low permeability using calcined zeolite as internal curing agent. Shrinkage, strength and permeability tests were conducted on the concretes. Through above tests, efficiency of shrinkage reduction using pre-wetted calcined zeolite particles in normal concrete, and impacts of porous zeolite particles in concrete on the movement of ions in concrete, are evaluated. Based on the present study, the following conclusions can be drawn: 1) the use of pre-wetted zeolite particles in normal strength concrete can reduce shrinkage of the concrete, especially the drying shrinkage; 2) the addition of the porous zeolite may negatively influence the permeability of concrete at early-ages. However, the long-term permeability of concrete (such as 90 days) is better than that of the control concrete; 3) designed four mixtures with addition of pre-wetted zeolite particles have a comparable cement amount normally used in practice for normal strength concrete based on the present study.