Performance of paraffin mixed concrete subjected to combined freeze-thaw and chloride environment

In this study, the fresh properties of paraffin-mixed concrete, compressive strength, resistance to frost damage, and resistance to composite deterioration under freeze-thaw and salt environment were investigated. The compressive strength of paraffin-mixed concrete was almost the same as that of unmixed concrete, and no decrease in strength was observed, unlike the concrete with entrained air in consideration of freeze-thaw resistance. Concerning the freeze-thaw resistance of paraffin-mixed concrete, the relative dynamic modulus of elasticity (RDME) did not decrease even without entrained air. In addition, no decrease in the RDME was observed in the combined deterioration with salt damage, and it was confirmed that the mass reduction was suppressed compared to the concrete without paraffin. The freeze-thaw resistance of concrete when paraffin is mixed may be improved due to the reduction in the amount of frozen water and the mixed paraffin particles exist in the concrete as pore fillers with a size of 200 μm or less, which act as substitutes for air voids. This resulted in reduction of the apparent air void spacing and thereby relieving the pore pressure.