A novel approach to understanding the compaction energy effect on the pore network and fatigue resistance of pervious concrete

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of compaction duration on the mechanical and durability properties of pervious concrete, emphasising compaction energy, pore characteristics and fatigue performance. A novel method was introduced to quantify compaction energy using a vibration hammer, with 5, 10, and 20 s corresponding to measured compaction energies of 12.14, 22.94 and 46.63 J/l, respectively. The results highlight that a moderate compaction duration of 10 s optimally balances mechanical strength, porosity and fatigue resistance, achieving a compressive strength of 27.9 MPa in the 40% ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) replacement mixture while maintaining uniform pore distribution. CT scan analysis confirmed a homogeneous pore structure in 10-second compacted samples, whereas over-compaction at 20 s resulted in paste segregation. Fatigue life analysis indicated superior resilience in 10 s compacted samples under cyclic loading.