Summary of “ Review on Ultra High Performance Concrete: Part I - Raw Materials and

Mixture Design ” article

The article "A Review on Ultra High Performance Concrete: Part I - Raw Materials and Mixture
Design" provides an extensive overview of the theoretical principles, raw materials, mixture design
methods, and preparation techniques for Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC). UHPC is
characterized by its exceptional compressive strength exceeding 150 MPa, high ductility, and
excellent durability.

The authors begin by highlighting the four fundamental principles for UHPC design: reduction in
porosity, improvement in microstructure, enhancement in homogeneity, and increase in toughness.
These principles form the basis for achieving the desired mechanical and durability properties of
UHPC.

The article discusses the influence of different raw materials on the performance of UHPC. It
emphasizes the use of supplementary cementitious materials such as fly ash, slag, and silica fume,
which can partially or completely replace cement. The incorporation of these materials not only
enhances the strength of UHPC but also reduces material costs. Additionally, the authors mention
the use of conventional materials and common technologies as emerging trends in UHPC
production.

Mixture design, sample preparation, and curing regimes are crucial factors in achieving the desired
properties of UHPC. The article delves into various aspects of mixture design, including the close
packing of raw materials and the use of high-performance superplasticizers to reduce water content.
It also highlights the importance of improving the microstructure and homogeneity of UHPC, which
can be achieved through proper mixture design and optimization techniques. Furthermore, the
article emphasizes the need to enhance the toughness of UHPC to ensure its resistance to cracking
and impact.

The raw materials used in UHPC are thoroughly discussed, with a focus on cementitious
components. Portland cement, silica fume, granulated blast furnace slag, fly ash, metakaolin,
limestone powder, and steel slag powder are among the key materials examined. The authors
provide insights into the properties of each material and their impact on the overall performance of
UHPC.

In terms of curing regimes, the article highlights the influence of temperature on the microstructure
and performance of UHPC. High-temperature curing is found to result in denser microstructure and
improved performance compared to room temperature curing. However, the application of high-
temperature curing may have limitations in certain scenarios. The authors suggest that the use of
widely available raw materials and common technologies, such as conventional casting and room
temperature curing, is a favorable approach for UHPC production.

In conclusion, this comprehensive review article provides valuable insights into the raw materials,
mixture design, and preparation techniques for Ultra High Performance Concrete. It highlights the
importance of reducing porosity, improving microstructure, enhancing homogeneity, and increasing
toughness in UHPC design. The utilization of supplementary cementitious materials and the
adoption of common technologies are identified as emerging trends in UHPC production. The
knowledge presented in this article can serve as a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and
practitioners involved in the development and application of UHPC.