Use of different limestone and chalk powders in self-compacting concrete

This paper presents a study on the use of different types of limestone and chalk powders as fillers in self-compacting concrete (SCC) and their effects on superplasticizer demand and the strength properties of concrete mixes. It was found that all the different limestone and chalk powders selected could be used successfully for producing SCC mixes, although modest adjustments of superplasticizer dosage were necessary. Generally, higher superplasticizer dosages were required for SCC using chalk powder than for that using limestone powder. The fineness of the powders had little effect on the superplasticizer demand. The compressive strength of the SCC mixes containing the limestone and chalk powders was significantly greater than that of the conventional vibrated reference concrete at the same water/cement ratio, particularly at early ages.