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Acquiring, Analyzing, and Using Complete Three-Dimensional Aggregate Shape Information
Published
Author(s)
Edward J. Garboczi, Nicos Martys, H A. Saleh, Richard A. Livingston
Abstract
The shape of aggregates, from whatever source, plays a crucial role in determining the properties of the composite material in which they are embedded (e.g., asphaltic or portland cement concrete). To properly characterize this three-dimensional shape, three-dimensional information is needed. We show how this kind of information can be acquired via x-ray computed tomography. Mathematical burning algorithms can be applied to a multi-aggregate image to extract individual particles of various sizes. A spherical harmonic mathematical analysis can then be used to completely characterize the three-dimensional shape of each extracted aggregate. This real shape information can then be incorporated into algorithms for simulating the rheology of suspensions (fresh concrete or other materials) and into algorithms for simulating the structure of portland cement concrete.
Proceedings Title
Aggregates, Concrete, Bases and Fines, 9th Annual Symposium of the International Center of Aggregate Research
Garboczi, E.
, Martys, N.
, Saleh, H.
and Livingston, R.
(2001),
Acquiring, Analyzing, and Using Complete Three-Dimensional Aggregate Shape Information, Aggregates, Concrete, Bases and Fines, 9th Annual Symposium of the International Center of Aggregate Research, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=860347
(Accessed October 7, 2025)