Precast Solutions - Winter 2009 - (Page 24) Scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of OWRHA (no C-Graphite left) and Ground Rice Husk Ash (with C-Graphite - right) +L +b +a can result in a change in color. If the study can jointly develop a field technology to predict and control color variation of concrete, it will have achieved a milestone for the precast industry in its quest to address costumers’ needs and expectations. Acknowledgements The authors gratefully acknowledge the National Science Foundation for financially supporting the project. The authors also would like to thank Artistic Stones Inc. for assistance and collaboration. -a -L -b Rossella M. Ferraro is a Graduate Research Assistant at the of the steel reinforcement will be monitored. In particular, a statisticsbased model will be developed to describe the relationship between corrosion of the steel reinforcement and color variation of the offwhite concrete over time. As an alternative to traditional steel reinforcing bars, the use of glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) reinforcement will also be considered in the research program. The primary advantage of GFRP reinforcing for this type of application is the lack of corrosion. This means stability in color and less stringent requirements on concrete cover and consequently lighter elements. Precasters need consistent color in manufacturing The experience of the precast manufacturer was the major motivation for the investigation on color analysis: Artistic Stones Inc. explained how difficult it can be to deal with white concrete in an industrial setting. Often a change in brand of any constituent, particularly cement, Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering at the University of Miami. Her research focuses on the use of advanced composite material for sustainable construction. Antonio Nanni is the Fisher Endowed Scholar, Professor and Chair of the Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering at the University of Miami. His research interests include the evaluation, repair and rehabilitation of concrete structures. 24 Precast Solutions | Winter 2009 www.precastsolutions.org http://www.precastsolutions.org
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