Date of Graduation

5-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering (PhD)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Civil Engineering

Advisor/Mentor

Murray, Cameron D.

Committee Member

Prinz, Gary S.

Second Committee Member

Hale, W. Micah

Third Committee Member

Burris, Lisa

Keywords

Alternative cement; Extreme temperatures; Maturity method

Abstract

Belitic Calcium Sulfoaluminate (BCSA) cement is an alternative binder known for its rapid setting and high early strength, making it ideal for applications such as fast-track construction and repair. This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the behavior of BCSA cement under a wide range of curing temperatures, with emphasis on early-age strength development, admixture effects, and the use of the maturity method for strength prediction.

The research evaluates BCSA cement performance in both hot and cold environments, ranging from approximately -28.9 °C (-20°F) to 49 °C (120°F). In warm climates, citric acid was used as a set retarder to improve workability and manage setting time, though careful dosage control was needed to avoid delays in strength gain. In cold climates, combinations of aluminum sulfate and chemical salts such as calcium chloride, calcium nitrate, and sodium chloride, were used to enhance early hydration. These chemical strategies proved effective in mitigating temperature-related performance issues and optimizing the strength of BCSA cement mixtures in challenging environments.

In addition to admixture optimization, the maturity method was applied to BCSA concrete mixtures to estimate in-place strength based on the cumulative effects of time and temperature. Datum temperatures and activation energies were determined experimentally, and maturity equations were developed. The results suggest that, when properly calibrated, the maturity method provides reliable strength predictions at 1 day of age ang later and can serve as a valuable tool in the quality control of BCSA concrete. Extremely early age strengths proved challenging to predict accurately.

Altogether, this investigation highlights the versatility of BCSA cement and provides practical recommendations for its use across a broad range of environmental conditions. By addressing both the chemical and thermal aspects of hydration, this research supports the continued development and implementation of BCSA-based systems in modern construction.

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