Effect of Seawater on the Preparation and Performance of Grout

Diaz D.B.; Maza J.F.; Salas C.O. · International Conference on Civil, Structural and Transportation Engineering (2026) · DOI: 10.11159/iccste26.250

Resumen

This study analyzes the behavior of a grout prepared with Type HS Portland cement and sodium bentonite, using two mixing conditions: potable water and seawater. The objective is to verify the applicability of the provisions established in ASTM D4428, which indicate that the grout must maintain adequate workability at 48 hours for its use in PS Logging geophysical tests. The mixtures were designed according to these recommendations, and a total of 150 cylindrical specimens (4" × 8") were fabricated, equally distributed between both water conditions. Evaluations were conducted at 48 hours, 7, 14, and 28 days, considering physical properties (weight and density) and mechanical properties (compressive strength).During the initial setting, a biphasic behavior was observed, in which only the solidified portion was suitable for mechanical testing. The results show that specimens prepared with seawater exhibited lower compressive strength at all evaluated ages compared to those prepared with potable water. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the performance of grout prepared with potable water and provide a more informed basis for evaluating the operational applicability of current technical recommendations in geotechnical testing.

Instituciones: Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas