The Effect of Calcined Bentonite Clay on the Late-Age Electrical Conductivity of Cement Paste after Wetting and Drying Cycles

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the

development of sustainable construction materials and technologies. One

promising approach is the use of natural minerals and additives to enhance the

properties of cementitious composites. Calcined bentonite clay is a natural

pozzolanic material that has been

shown to improve

the compressive strength

and durability of

concrete. However, its

effect on the electrical conductivity of cement paste

is less well understood. Thisstudy investigates the effect of calcined

bentonite clay on the electrical conductivity of cement paste after wetting and

drying cycles. Cement paste samples

were prepared with

different proportions of

calcined bentonite clay

substitute (5%, 10%,

15%, 20%, 20%, 25% and 30%). The specimens were then subjected to

wetting and drying cycles of 5, 10, 15, and 20 cycles. Electrical conductivity

measurements were performed on the specimens after each wetting and drying

cycle.The results of the study showed that calcined bentonite clay had a

negative effect on the electrical

conductivity of cement

paste. The electrical

conductivity of the

specimens decreased with increasing calcined

bentonite clay substitution

level and with

increasing number of

wetting and dryingcycles.Despite its negative effect on

electrical conductivity, calcined bentonite clay was found to improve the compressive

strength of cement paste in the long term. This suggests that calcined

bentonite clay is a viable mineral additive for improving the durability of

concrete, even if it is not suitable for applications where high electrical

conductivity is required.<o:p></o:p>