Particle Packing Approach for Designing the Mortar Phase of Self Compacting Concrete

Abstract

Self Compacting Concrete (SCC) is a tailored concrete mix, strongly dependent on the constituent proportions and the physical characteristics of the constituents. In order to achieve the self compacting concrete, mortar phase plays a vital role as it contributes to the active suspension phase of aggregates. High powder content and optimum fine aggregate is required for the desired flowability and stability of mortar. Hence, for accomplishing a self compacting concrete, the design of paste and mortar phase needs to be carefully proportioned. A positive correlation exists between the flow properties of the concrete and the packing density of the mix. The packing density of the cementitious materials plays a key role in deciding the final strength of concrete. Improved packing offers the benefit of reduction in water demand, reduced permeability, reduction in bleeding and reduced porosity of the transition zone. The objective of this study is to design the mortar phase for a self compacting concrete reinforced with glass fibres by applying the concept of particle packing. Design of paste and mortar phase was done based on particle packing approach using Puntke test. Initially the powder content (cement and slag) was arrived based on Puntke test and the optimum addition of slag was determined with the slag activity index. The super plasticizer dosage was fixed by performing flow studies using Marsh cone test and the fine aggregate content was established by Puntke Test. The selected powder to fine aggregate content established by particle packing method was taken for mini slump studies and further the optimization of glass fibres content is determined. The outcome of the current study exposed the possibility of obtaining a self compacting mortar incorporating glass fibres which in turn useful for designing the self-compacting concrete.

Feasibility of using marine sediments in SCC pastes as supplementary cementitious materials

“…According to previous studies that used mini-slump and Marsh cones [57][58][59][60], good paste properties correspond to a D flow ≥ 165 mm and a T flow ≤ 40s, depending on the ratios of the concentration of solids to the total volume V S /V T , and of the volume of water to the total volume V W /V T .…”

Influence of the spruce strands hygroscopic behaviour on the performances of wood-cement composites

“…BET surface area is measured by using a nitrogen adsorption measurements (Micromeritics, Tristar II 3020V1.03). The water demand of the binder is measured by the Punkte test [26].…”

Mechanical Properties of High-Strength Self-Compacting Concrete

“…However, there is limited research available on the mechanical properties of HSSCC, and further investigation is required to fully understand its potential. In recent times, there have been several studies carried out to examine the mechanical properties of HSSCC. , These studies have shown that HSSCC has improved compressive and tensile strengths compared to conventional SCC and that its mechanical properties are influenced by factors like the type of aggregates used, curing conditions, and the type of admixtures. Numerous research works have been undertaken to analyze the mechanical properties of HSSCC, including but not limited to stress–strain behavior, elastic modulus, and Poisson’s ratio. − These studies have shown that the binder content, W/B ratio, and type and size of aggregates used in the mixes significantly influence the mechanical properties of HSSCC.…”

“…In recent times, there have been several studies carried out to examine the mechanical properties of HSSCC. 3 , 4 These studies have shown that HSSCC has improved compressive and tensile strengths compared to conventional SCC and that its mechanical properties are influenced by factors like the type of aggregates used, curing conditions, and the type of admixtures. Numerous research works have been undertaken to analyze the mechanical properties of HSSCC, including but not limited to stress–strain behavior, elastic modulus, and Poisson’s ratio.…”