Simplified mix design procedures for steel fibre reinforced self compacting concrete

Abstract

The present study focus on the systematic design methodology for producing a self-compacting concrete (SFRSCC) consisting of steel fibre reinforcements. It is intended to achieve a self-consolidating concrete which can yield dual benefit of self-consolidating properties as well as toughness of the composite. Experimental modelling consisted of designing the mortar phase using manufactured sand (M-sand) as fine aggregate using systematic mix design methodology based on particle packing concept. Optimisation of aggregates was arrived based on packing density concept by conducting slump cone studies. Powder combinations consisting of cement and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) were selected by conducting paste consistency test. Finally, superplasticizer dosage was fixed based on Marsh cone studies and volume fraction of steel fibres from slump flow studies. The workability of standard and high strength concrete is affected by the inclusion of steel fibre dosage and the fresh properties revealed the importance of maintaining a high paste volume for better flow ability. Based on the proposed mix design methodology with M-sand a high strength self-compacting concrete was achieved upto 70MPa. Experimental investigations were reported on the other assessment made from fresh and hardened properties of designed self-compacting steel fibre concrete mixes. Also, the outcome of test results revealed the possibility of using M-sand as an alternative for complete replacement of river sand.