An Experimental Study on Self Compacting Concrete with Partial Replacement of Cement by Silica Fume and Crumb Rubber

Abstract

Abstract: Self-compacting concrete (SCC) is a type of concrete that can flow and consolidate under its own weight without the need for vibration. SCC has many advantages such as improved workability, durability, surface quality, and reduced noise and labour. However, SCC also requires a high amount of cement and fine materials, which increases the cost and environmental impact of concrete production. Therefore, the use of supplementary cementitious materials such as silica fume and crumb rubber is beneficial to reduce the cement content and enhance the properties of SCC. This study aims to explore the effects of mixing silica fume and crumb rubber on the fresh and hardened properties of SCC. This involves the preparation of various concrete mixes with different percentages of cement replaced by silica fume and crumb rubber. Through a series of experiments, we evaluate the fresh and hardened properties of the SCC mixes, fresh properties such as workability, passing ability, and filling ability, while hardened properties including compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength. The result obtained from these tests are compared with conventional concrete of M30 grade od concrete specimens. Hence the use of silica fume and crumb rubber leads to reduction in cement quantity for construction purpose and its use should be promoted for better performance as well as environmental sustainability.