03-04-2011, 09:09 PM
Self compacting concrete (SCC) represents one of the most significant advances in concrete technology for decades. SCC can be described as a high performance material which flows under its own weight without requiring vibrators to achieve consolidation by complete filling of formworks even when access is hindered by narrow gaps between reinforcement bars. SCC can also be used in situations where it is difficult or impossible to use mechanical compaction for fresh concrete, such as underwater concreting, cast in-situ pile foundations, machine bases and columns or walls with congested reinforcement. The high flow ability of SCC makes it possible to fill the formwork without vibration.
Self-compacting concrete is a fluid mixture suitable for placing in structures with congested reinforcement without vibration. Self-compacting concrete development must ensure a good balance between deformability and stability. Also, compactability is affected by the characteristics of materials and the mix proportions; it becomes necessary to evolve a procedure for mix design of SCC. This project consists of: (i) development of a suitable mix for SCC that would satisfy the requirements of the plastic state; (ii) casting of concrete samples and testing them for compressive strength.
This project presents the experimental procedures for the design of self-compacting concrete mixes. The test results for acceptance characteristics of self-compacting concrete such as Slump flow, Slump flow at T50cm, V-funnel and L-Box are presented. Further, compressive strength at the ages of 7 and 14 days was also determined and results are included here. The SCC trials1 to 5 mixes got less strength SCC mixes, which are not useful for most of the constructions. The proportions for SCC trials 6 to 8 mixes got required strengths satisfying all the properties of Self-Compacting Concrete which can be easily used for the development of medium strength self-compacting and for further study.