Abstract:
The placement and adequate compaction of concrete in heavily reinforced sections are the challenges faced during the construction of reinforced concrete structures. However, to obtain good quality concrete in all the structures in general and in heavily reinforced sections in particular, there is a need to ensure proper placement and adequate compaction of concrete. In heavily reinforced sections, there may be segregation and blockage of concrete during its flow through the narrow openings, which will affect the internal structure of concrete leading to inadequate strength and durability properties. To avoid the problems related to the flow of concrete into every corner in the formwork of the structural elements especially in heavily reinforced sections and subsequent compaction, the self-compacting concrete (SCC) has been used in the construction of structures worldwide. Over the years, the SCC has become an attractive option in the area of construction as compared to normal vibrating concrete. The SCC is designed specially to provide excellent deformability in heavily congested reinforced sections and also it has the ability to flow into every corner of formwork under its self-weight during the placement process, without requirement of vibration for compaction. The reinforced concrete structures are subjected to several durability problems during their service life. Among the durability problems, chloride induced corrosion of steel reinforcement is the most significant one that occurs in the reinforced concrete structures. The aggressive agents such as chloride and sulfate ions can enter into the concrete through its ingredients during the time of preparation or can penetrate into the hardened concrete from the surrounding environment during the service life of concrete structures.
