Development of a Mix Design Method for Multiplexed Powder Self-Compacting Concrete Based on the Multiscale Rheological Threshold Theory

Abstract

The multiscale rheological threshold theory can guide the mix design of self-compacting concrete (SCC) from a trans-scale view. Through the paste thresholds calculated by the mini-slump flow test results, the workability of SCC can be predicted. However, this method shows insufficient prediction accuracy when handling multiplexed powder. In the existing threshold calculation formula, the characteristics of powder materials were described through empirical values, without considering the specific properties of various powders. This paper focuses on the application of the multiscale rheological threshold theory to multiplexed powder SCCs. Through the research on the characteristics of powder materials, especially D50 and Span, the effect of the powder properties on paste thresholds was carried out. The prediction accuracies were confirmed by four sets of self-compacting mixtures at paste and concrete scales and were verified with another set of tests. There are a total of 45 paste and 45 SCC test results with multiplexed powders, including cement, fly ash, and limestone powder. The predicting accuracies are expressed as the relative accuracy ε and the accuracy index ε′, calculated by the comparison of self-compacting zones at paste and SCC scales. The calculation results showed that ε and ε′ of the modified method increased. This modified method can be efficient for the mix design of SCC containing multiplexed powders.