Self-compacting concrete: the role of the particle size distribution

Abstract

This paper addresses experiments and theories on Self-Compacting Concrete. The “Chinese Method”, as developed by Su et al. [1] and Su and Miao [2] and adapted to European circumstances, serves as a basis for the development of new concrete mixes. Mixes, consisting of slag blended cement, gravel (4-16mm), three types of sand (0-1, 0-2 and 0- 4mm) and a polycarboxylic ether type superplasticizer, were developed [3]. These mixes are extensively tested, both in fresh and hardened states, and meet all practical and technical requirements such as a low cement and powder content (medium strength and low cost). It follows that the particle size distribution of all solids in the mix should follow the grading line of the modified Andreasen and Andersen [4] model.