Experimental simulation of self-consolidating concrete formwork pressure

Thin Reinforced Cementitious Products and Ferrocement; and E803, Faculty Network Coordinating Committee The aim of this investigation was to develop a laboratory device to describe the formwork pressure behavior of self-consolidating concrete. The development of such an apparatus reduces the cost and time needed to conduct the same research on real structures. The effects of casting rate and mixture composition were studied by pressurizing a volume of material inside a cylinder and recording the lateral pressure evolution. Columns measuring 14 m (46 ft) in height and two different casting rates were simulated. Mixtures were designed using four different water-binder ratios (w/b) and different binder compositions. Results showed that formwork pressures less than hydrostatic are achievable. Higher pressures were associated with higher w/b and casting rates. A reduction of formwork pressure up to 50% of the hydrostatic value was recorded with a casting rate of 7 m/hour (23 ft/hour) and a w/b of 0.32. Data also showed that incorporation of fly ash reduces self-consolidating concrete (SCC) formwork pressure.