Durability performance of self-compacting concrete

The methodological shift in the thinking about concrete from a strength-based concept to a durability-based design has led to the development of self-compacting concrete (SCC). This paper presents a systematic experimental programme on durability studies conducted, covering three grades of SCC from low strength (M20 grade) to high strength (M70 grade). The durability studies include acid attack, corrosion, sorptivity and thermal studies. The main objective of this investigation is to develop SCC mixes that are resistant to acid attack and suitable for Indian temperature conditions compared with vibrated normal concrete. Other durability factors such as capillary absorption and corrosion resistance of three such grades of SCC mixes have also been investigated. It was noted from the durability studies that in almost all cases the loss in durability is reduced with increase in grade of concrete. Furthermore, a comparison of SCC and normal concrete mixes has shown a good performance of SCC specimens as against normal concrete specimens.