The Resistance of Composite Cement Paste with Calcined Diatomite to Chloride Attack

An experimental study was carried out to understand the resistance of composite cement paste containing different levels of calcined diatomite powder (CDP) to chloride attack. The amount of water used was determined so that the composite cement paste has a normal consistency. The cube specimens with 50 mm size were cast and cured in water for 28 days after which the specimens were immersed in 10% NaCl solution for 1 month and 2 months. The loss in mass and the degradation of compressive strength after 1 and 2 month immersion time were examined. The results show that the CDP cement paste had less surface deterioration compared toOrdinary Portland Cement (OPC) paste. Based on visual inspection, mass loss, and degradation of compressive strength, the composite cement paste with 20% CDP has better resistance to chloride attack.