Using AP2RC & P1RB micro-silica gels to improve concrete strength and study of resulting contamination

Today, application of additives to replace cement in order to improve concrete mixes is widely promoted. Micro-silica is among the best pozzolanic additives which can desirably contribute to the concrete characteristics provided it is used properly. In this paper, the effects of AP2RC and P1RB micro-silica gels on strength characteristics of normal concrete are investigated. Obtained results indicated that the application of these additives not only provided proper workability during construction, but also led to increased tensile, compressive and flexural strength values for the concrete during early ages as well as ultimate ones with the resulting reduction in the porosity lowering permeability of the micro-silica concrete. Furthermore, evaluation of microbial contamination of the mentioned gels showed the resultant contamination level to be within the permitted range.