EFFECTS OF MINERAL AND CHEMICAL ADMIXTURES ON THE RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF SELF COMPACTING CONCRETE

Abstract

One of the most significant innovations on the workability of concrete that was achieved in
recent years is self-compacting concrete (SCC). This desirable performance can be attained through the
addition of admixtures to enhance its properties. In this study, superplasticizers were blended with fly ash and
air entraining admixtures and were tested for Slump Flow, V-Funnel, L-Box, U-Box, and Screen Stability tests
based on the European Federation of National Associations Representing for Concrete (EFNARC)
specifications and guidelines for SSC. Based on the results of the study, Fly ash with spherical smooth texture
enhances the lubrication between the concrete particles while the air-entrainer provides microscopic bubbles
acting as ball bearings between aggregates. The best result was obtained in the specimens containing 5.0%
superplasticizers due to its dispersibility effect and reduced flow resistance. In general, the air entraining agent
blended with 3.7% superplasticizer exhibited the best performance in all workability test conducted.