Comparative study of plastic property test methods for self-consolidating concrete

Abstract

Currently, there are a variety of test methods to evaluate the plastic properties of self-consolidating concrete (SCC) specified in provincial, national, and international guidelines. There is, however, a dearth of knowledge on how the results of the various test methods compare with each other. Some of the tests are direct measures, others are indirect; some of the tests are qualitative and others are quantitative; and some tests have specified acceptance limits while others do not. The purpose of this study, initiated by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO), is to compare the plastic properties (filling ability, passing ability, and segregation resistance) of SCC and identify any correlations between them to determine the most appropriate test methods for evaluating the plastic properties of SCC. The filling ability (slump flow, L-box (t20 and t40), and V-funnel), passing ability (J-ring and L-box blocking ratio), and segregation resistance (visual stability index, column method, V-funnel (t5-t0)) tests are conducted on eight SCC mix designs. The results are compared to the acceptance criteria specified by the MTO for SCC. Based on the results, and their relationships, the plastic property tests most suitable for laboratory, prequalification, and field-testing are recommended.