Self-consolidating concrete (SCC) is one of the most significant advances in concrete technology made possible by combining state-of-the-art understanding of concrete rheology with the application of the latest generation of chemical admixtures. Since its introduction, the use of SCC has increased steadily because of the many benefits it imparts (economic, environmental, working conditions, construction time, etc.). SCC is generally defined as a concrete that fills a form with minimum or no vibration and it is characterized by high level of flow when compared to traditional concrete.
Key Materials: Fly Ash Class “C”, new generation of Polycarboxylate High Range Water Reducer (SHRWR). New Sand and Rock sources with better gradations.
Benefits:
Reduction in noise discomfort and noise pollution.
Improved workability.
Reduced bug holes.
Increased quality of the finish product.
Program:
A comprehensive test program was designed to gradually modify the concrete mixture materials and proportions necessary to obtain the optimum flowing and engineering properties. The program was divided in 3 stages.
- Laboratory Phase. A mathematical relationship between the strength, slump and various mixture proportions variables was developed, then a series of trial batches were carried out.
- Field Phase. Based on the results from the laboratory trials, a more elaborated testing scheme was undertaken to obtain the necessary data to satisfy the ACI 214 and 301 qualification requirements for compressive strength.
- Mock-up Phase. Mock-up pieces were cast to simulate the production environment: Forms, reinforcement, placement techniques and finishing techniques.
Facts.
"Rock 1" SSC mix (f’c=6000psi) 19”-21” Slump Flow. Average 28 day strength = 7990psi
"Rock 2" SSC mix (f’c=6000psi) 22”-25” Slump Flow. Average 28 day strength = 7600psi
"Rock 3" SSC mix (f’c=6000psi) 25”-28” Slump Flow. Average 28 day strength = 8450psi
