Linking solid particle packing of Eco-SCC to material performance

The concept of Eco-SCC aims to achieve self-compacting concrete (SCC) design for intermediate compressive strength mixtures that are commonly used in the ready-mix concrete industry. Contrary to many other approaches, in which the reactive cement clinker is replaced by a less reactive component, Eco-SCC involves the reduction of the total powder content. In the approach presented in this paper, the lubricant volume is increased by using a non-reactive filler. An improved particle packing with an enhanced lattice effect can minimize the lubricant demand and enhance the stability of the concrete. The effect of particle-size distribution on stability and performance of optimized Eco-SCC is evaluated. Fresh and hardened properties, including rheological properties, blocking behavior, sedimentation stability, compressive strength development, and drying shrinkage are determined. Test results are correlated to particle packing characteristics of the aggregate and cementitious materials combinations using the gyratory intensive compaction test (ICT) approach. A clear relationship is observed between the particle-packing characteristics and the performance of Eco-SCC.