Análisis comparativo de la resistencia a compresión del hormigón con adición de cal hidratada y hormigón tradicional

Abstract

This experimental study focused on a comparative analysis of the compressive strength of concrete with the addition of Type N hydrated lime and traditional concrete, with the aim of conducting a comprehensive analysis of the mechanical properties, seeking to establish whether the addition of this material is a viable alternative for optimizing structural performance and whether it contributes to sustainability within the construction industry. More specifically, this research focused on determining the physical and mechanical properties of the constituent materials, obtaining the cylindrical compressive strength, and calculating the approximate elastic modulus for different ages of 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. To carry out this research, a quantitative and experimental methodological approach was used, following current technical standards such as ACI, ASTM, and NTE INEN, which were developed in three sequential phases. The first phase was dedicated to the characterization of stone aggregates, Portland cement, and Type N hydrated lime. The second phase focused on the design of the dosage using the ACI 211.1 method to prepare mixtures with additions of hydrated lime of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% and the control mixture. Cylindrical test tubes were prepared and compression tests were performed to then calculate the elastic modulus. Finally, the third phase established a comparative analysis of the resulting values when evaluated for their performance in each modified mixture. The experimental results demonstrate that the controlled addition of hydrated lime optimizes mechanical properties, validating the research hypothesis. Furthermore, the addition of 5% hydrated lime generated a 17% increase in compressive strength above the design strength, which was the optimal dosage in the research as it generated more stable mechanical behavior by increasing the elastic modulus by 10% of the original and a slight reduction of approximately 1% in its density.In conclusion, this 5% addition has a positive effect due to its pozzolanic reaction with silicates, which reduce porosity and improve microstructure. On the other hand, additions above this percentage showed a decrease in compressive strength due to excess material and the need to increase the amount of water in the mixture.