Durability performance of self-compacting concrete

Although self compacting concrete (SCC) is currently used in many countries, there is a fundamental lack of the intrinsic durability of the material itself. This article presents the outcomes from a research program on principal indicators that define the durability of SCC (sorptivity, porosity and chloride ion permeability) and compares these indicators with the corresponding parameters of conventional concrete. The results show, for the first time, that there is a correlation between the various durability indicators for the specific filler additives used in the mix designs incorporated in this paper. Such a correlation may be used to assess the durability of SCC without the need to rely on time consuming artificial weathering experimental procedures.

► Increased fines content in SCCs refine the pore network of the material.
► Mineral additives refine the microstructure of SCCs and improve durability.
► Linear correlations are shown to exist between durability indicators in SCC.
► Simple durability tests can be used to provide safe predictions for SCC durability.