Durability assessment of Portland cement concrete using accelerated freeze-thaw testing

The freeze and thaw cycle can be identified as one of many factors that lead to the deterioration of concrete. An ability to withstand against freezing and thawing cycles will enhance concrete durability. It is, therefore, important that concrete mixtures be designed to contain entrained air in order to increase the durability of the concrete. An adequate air-void system will aid in the resistance of freeze-thaw damage.;The purpose of this thesis has been to evaluate the durability of Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP). Two mix designs were tested for durability through the use of ASTM C666 - 92 (Test Method for Resistance of Concrete to Rapid Freezing and Thawing). Both a standard mix used by the Kentucky Department of Transportation (KDOT) and a modified mix were tested for durability. The modified mix was created by modifying the KDOT standard mix through the provisions of the Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) Packing Handbook. Following the recommendations made by Vanessa Crabtree's (Crabtree 1996, 70), more replicate specimens were made for both the standard and modified mixes.;The results of this study show no evidence that the SHRP Packing Handbook provisions have any positive impact upon the KDOT mix concerning freeze-thaw durability. The standard KDOT mix had a higher durability factor in all cases.