Grating-box test: A testing method for filling performance evaluation of self-compacting mortar in granular packs

Grating-box test is proposed and applied to evaluate the resisting ability of granular packs to the filling movement of self-compacting cementing materials. Firstly, parameter “h2” (“h2N”), reflecting the filling performance of SCM, is obtained from theoretical analysis of self-compacting-mortar's filling performance in quasi-three-dimensional (quasi-3D) granular packs. Second, experimental results of grating-box test with quasi-3D molds using cylindrical obstacles are found in good agreement with the theoretical analysis above. Third, damping coefficient “η”, an indicator being positive correlated with the resisting ability of granular packs to filling movement of SCM, is found to represent the inherent properties of granular packs.