A try to replicate clay with UHPC

We had a lot of fun developing our UHPC binder for historical applications. Of course, we do not just sit in the lab and develop recipes, we try the recipes for the lime plaster and of course stucco practically.

Since most of us are not talented, we invited an expert. After about a day our workshop looked like we were renovating it and just like the workshop some of the team members had to undergo general cleaning.

The final goal was to recreate clay with UHPC. Clay is a fantastic natural material. Actually, UHPC does not copy it, but it was a lot of fun for everyone to try.

Here is a general short form of what we have achieved and what not:

• We have developed a UHPC binder that can be mixed with extremely fine sand to a clay-like consistency
• We need only a few water for all processing steps
• We do not need a furnace for strength development
• We can set the processing time and hardening time during the production of the binder as desired.
• The UHPC binder must be mixed with water in a compulsory mixer.
• The UHPC binder can be mixed as casting compound or clay-like solid.
• The UHPC binder can be made in different colors.

We had the material processed by a potter. His verdict was that if we worked on some set screws in the recipe, we would produce an interesting material. We did not expect a better judgment. Our goal was to get the sound as close as possible in consistency and workmanship. I would say we are not that bad.