Enhanced Acid Resistance of High-Performance Self-Compacting Concrete with Supplementary Cementitious Materials: Experimental and Predictive Insights

Abstract

This study examines the durability and performance of high-performance self-compacting concrete (HP-SCC) incorporating supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) such as natural pozzolan, blast furnace slag, and silica fume when exposed to aggressive acidic environments (HCl and H2SO4). In addition to standard tests for fresh concrete properties (slump flow, L-box, V-funnel, sieve stability) and compressive strength, the research integrates analytical chemistry techniques to investigate the degradation mechanisms. Mass loss was measured to quantify acid attack, while X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was used to monitor mineralogical changes, such as the dissolution of portlandite and formation of secondary salts due to leaching. Chemical analysis of the immersion solutions provided insight into the dissolution behavior of cementitious phases and shifts in chemical equilibria under acidic conditions. The experimental data were used to calibrate a predictive computational model simulating the kinetics of degradation. Results demonstrated that mixtures containing silica fume and blast furnace slag exhibited superior chemical stability, retaining mechanical strength and microstructural integrity over time. These findings highlight the value of incorporating analytical methods in concrete durability studies, especially for designing materials intended for harsh industrial environments.