Effects of mix design parameters and rheological properties on dynamic stability of self-consolidating concrete

Stability is a crucial property for successful placement and performance of self-consolidating concrete (SCC). Dynamic stability refers to the segregation resistance of concrete during flow and is not thoroughly described in literature to date. In this research, a newly developed dynamic stability test, the Tilting-box test, was employed to evaluate the effect of different mix design parameters on the dynamic segregation of SCC. Paste volume, water-to-binder ratio (w/b), maximum size of aggregate (MSA), aggregate density, and aggregate grain-size distribution were shown to affect the dynamic stability of SCC, while the coarse aggregate shape did not have a significant influence. The slump flow and V-funnel flow time as well as the rheological parameters were found to be an efficient tool for controlling dynamic segregation. Higher yield stress or plastic viscosity reduced the risk of dynamic segregation. Recommended workability characteristics and rheological parameters of SCC to ensure adequate dynamic stability level were proposed.