Usability of a Natural Tuff as Admixture in Clinker and Its Influence on the Physico-Chemical and Mechanical Properties of Mortar

摘要

The mechanical and physical properties of TUFF from Korsimoro (Burkina Faso) were investigated for use as admixtures in clinker to make pozzolanic cement. Six different cement mortar specimens were prepared by replacing clinker with TUFF in ratios of 0%, 5%, 8%, 10%, 13% and 15% by mass. The flexural and compressive strengths of the specimens were determined at the ages of 2, 7, 28 and 60 days. The effects of the TUFF replacement ratio on workability, setting time and volume expansion were also examined. Based on the results, it was concluded that Korsimoro TUFF has pozzolanic activity and is suitable for use as an alternative adherent material in the cement industry.