Properties and benefits of self compacting concrete

Self-consolidating alias self-compacting concrete is an extremely flowable type of concrete that does not need vibration for setting and compaction.

It is compressed into each corner of a formwork perfectly with its self weight exclusive of any external vibrators. It is a fully engineered concrete with greater fluidity.

Self compacting concrete retains all the strength and characteristics of concrete satisfying desired performance requirements.

In some specific conditions the inclusion of superplasticizers and viscosity modifier with the mix, the bleeding and segregation is significantly reduced. The strength is decreased for the concrete that segregates and as a result honeycombed areas are produced next to the formwork. A properly designed SCC mix does not segregate and it retains extreme deformability and outstanding stability characteristics.

Advantages of SCC:

a. Curtailment in site manpower
b. Problems due to vibrators are reduced
c. Easy to set
d. Rapid construction
e. Superior surface finish
f. The strength is enhanced because of superior compaction and uniformity of concrete.

Characteristics Of Self-Compacting Concrete

Self-compacting concrete has strong resistance capacity against segregation with mineral fillers or fines as well as special admixtures. It should have the flexibility to be flown and filled special forms under its own weight, it should be flowable enough to move across highly reinforced areas, and should have the capability to get rid of aggregate segregation. This type of concrete should fulfill special project requirements regarding placement and flow.

Self-compacting concrete having a similar water cement or cement binder ratio will generally contain a marginally higher strength with regard to conventional vibrated concrete, without proper vibration, a superior interface among the aggregate and hardened paste will be created.

The concrete mix of SCC should be set at a considerably higher velocity as compared to traditional concrete. Self-compacting concrete should be set at heights greater than 5 meters devoid of aggregate segregation. It can also be applied in areas with normal and congested reinforcement, with aggregates as large as 2 inches.

Self-Compacting Concrete Uses - Self-compacting concrete is mostly found in bridges and even on pre-cast sections.

a. Conclusion
b. Self compacting concrete can save time, cost as well as improve strength.
c. SSC can be efficiently transformed into congested reinforced areas like columns, drilled shafts.

Properties and benefits of self compacting concrete