Effect of Pumping on Properties of Bridge Concrete

Abstract

Pumping of concrete is widely used in large highway projects due to convenience and economy of placement. The short-term effects of pumping on the durability of concrete is well documented, whereas the long-term effects on concrete durability is not known. Both types of effects were studied herein through collection and testing of 73 concrete samples from the Florida Department of Transportation bridge construction sites before and after pumping. The tests performed were air content, slump, unit weight, compressive strength, rapid chloride permeability, and water permeability. The air content and the slump of concrete decreased by about 1% and 13 mm (0.5 in.) on average, respectively, due to pumping. The unit weight and compressive strength of concrete were found to increase by about 24 kg/m