Field validation of models for predicting lateral form pressure exerted by SCC

One obstacle to increased use of self-consolidating concrete (SCC) in cast-in-place applications is a fear of high, lateral formwork pressure. The literature has repeatedly shown that pressures far lower than hydrostatic can be obtained, but still a widespread concern of high pressure exists. Several models for predicting the lateral pressure when casting SCC have been developed. A number of experts representing these models gathered in Stockholm, Sweden to carry out a field evaluation. Eight instrumented wall elements with various geometries were cast with SCC using different mix designs as well as various casting rates. Pressure transducers were used to determine the lateral pressure. All necessary parameters for the respective models were characterized simultaneously by the participants using samples taken from the same batch. Results show a wide range of form pressures, and the evaluation of the ten included models reveals that all of them predict the lateral form pressure satisfactorily.