Study of the Influence of Complex Additives on Properties of the Gypsum-Cement-Puzzolan Binder and Concretes on its Basis

AbstractGypsum materials and products are related to progressive building materials because of their simplicity, efficiency, and low energy intensity of production of gypsum binders. Sufficient supply of natural gypsum provides the advantageous production of gypsum binding materials. Products based on gypsum binders have relatively low heat and sound conductivity and low weight, as well as environmental friendliness. Gypsum materials are fire-resistant, have good performance concerning steam and air permeability, the ability to absorb excess moisture from the air and release it at lower humidity which in its turn contributes to a favorable microclimate in the premises. However, gypsum binders and materials are characterized by such negative traits as high water demand and low water resistance. Furthermore, plaster concretes inherent limited strength, low frost resistance, and the necessity of a long period for drying during their manufacture. To improve the operational performance, properties of the gypsum-cement-pozzolan binder were studied where portland cement and silica fume were used as an active mineral additive. It is shown that with the use of active mineral additives in combination with the silica fume it is possible to obtain a binder with a low coefficient of softening and high resistance to frost