A numerical model is developed to describe the thermal conductivity, hydration, and moisture content of Portland cement mortar specimens. In order to develop the model, the thermal conductivity and specific heat of the mortar specimens were measured using the transient plane source method. The model was able to correctly describe the evolution of heat and the degree of hydration in both semi-adiabatic and steam curing conditions....
The incorporation of phase change materials (PCMs) into concrete bridge decks shows promise as a method of decreasing freeze/thaw cycling in bridge decks. The authors have conducted a study to determine the best carrier to be used for the incorporation of PCMs into concrete, as well as the effects of the incorporation of the carriers and PCMs on strength and thermal properties of mortars. Four different PCMs (PCM6, PT4, ...
The effects of incorporating phase change materials (PCMs) into concrete on the potential service lives of bridges were investigated. It was determined that PCMs could potentially be used in the future to reduce the effects of freeze-thaw cycles on bridges, but more work needed to be done to improve the strength of concretes containing PCMs before this could be applied. It was determined that increasing the latent heat of fusion ...
