Self-Compacting Concrete

Self-compacting concrete has the same properties as conventional concrete, except that it does not require vibration and compaction for placing or to fill formwork as it flows under its own weight. It is dense and homogenous with higher fines content than conventional concrete. It is used in areas where compaction is hard to achieve with a vibrator because of tight access, meshed reinforcements, or complex geometric shapes.

It is often specified to achieve homogeneous concrete structures, reduce noise and health and safety hazards, and speed up work. It normally involves a combination of limited aggregate content and more particularly the coarse aggregate content, low water powder ratio, and the use of superplasticizers. Improved production and placing, result in reduced labor and equipment costs, faster placing, less finishing works, lower concrete consumption as thinner elements are produced, faster production cycles, and improved quality and durability.

Holderchem provides assistance with regard to self-compacting concrete mix designs, and offers products to optimize performance including the following:

• High-range water reducers, with enhanced workability retention, increase strength, concrete impermeability, and self-compaction.
• Workability enhancing admixtures to extend the open time and water reduction.
• Viscosity modifying agents to boost cohesion.
• Silica fume to increase strength and impermeability.