Investigation Of A Calcinated Clay Product For Shotcrete Support

Ernesto Villaescusa, Nadia Bustos and Marco Orunesu

This paper presents research results for three shotcrete mixes that include up to 50% cement replacement by calcinated clay. The results are part of a multi company research project under way at the WA School of Mines and show that a 25- 30% saving can be achieved. In addition, a large amount of CO2 reduction (up to 40%) can be realized by replacing the cement within a conventional shotcrete mix. Additionally, large gains in early strength can lead to higher productivity. Also, the long-term strength is significant, and the failure mechanism is compatible to soft response to violent loading, likely to minimize shotcrete ejection.