Designing eco-friendly cement composites mixtures aided by artificial neural networks

The paper predicts the pull-off strength of the substrate layer of a cementitious composite containing granite powder and fly ash replacing up to 30% of the cement weight. For this purpose, intelligent artificial neural network (ANN) models were used and compared. A database was build based on and mix composition, curing time and curing method, and non-destructive Schmidt hammer compressive strength measurements. The model developed to predict the pull-off strength of the substrate layer of cementitious composites containing granite powder and fly ash was shown to be accurate. This method can be used especially for designing cement mortars with granite powder and fly ash additives replacing cement in the range of 0% to 30% of its weight. These mortars can be used for floor substrates.