Time-Dependent Behavior of Self-Consolidating Concrete Loaded at Early Age: Influence of Chemical Admixtures

Abstract

The introduction and use of chemical admixtures like polycarboxylate-based high-range water reducers (HRWR) and commercially ternary blended cements has allowed the successful production of self-consolidating concrete (SCC) for casting heavily reinforced sections, with poor access for vibrators and complex shapes of formwork. However, very little information is available on the influence of these chemicals and ternary blended cements on the time-dependent behavior of SCCs and particularly for those used in repairs. A laboratory investigation was undertaken to evaluate the potential of flexural creep behavior of several SCC mixtures by comparing their time-dependent behavior, which was monitored during the first two months. From the results, it became clear that the flexural creep potential of SCC varies widely depending on the nature of the high-range water reducer (HRWR) in use. It is also shown that even when belonging to the same polycarboxylic family as per the ASTM classification, the magnitude of flexural creep also varies widely depending on the properties of the polycarboxylic chemicals admixture in use. The paper summarizes the results of the experimental study that involved the comparison of data obtained from 10 SCC mixtures.