Effect of Addition of Combination of Admixtures on the Flow And Strength Characteristics of Self Compacting Concrete

Abstract

Self-compacting concrete (SCC) has emerged as a revolutionary construction material that can flow and consolidate under its own weight without the need for external vibration. This study investigates the influence of dissimilar combinations of admixtures on the flow and strength characteristics of self-compacting material. Five different admixture combinations were evaluated: Superplasticizer + Viscosity Modifying Agent (SP+VMA) as reference mix, SP+VMA+Air Entraining Agent (AEA), SP+VMA+Water Proofing Compound (WPC), SP+VMA+Retarder (RET), and SP+VMA+Accelerator (ACC). Results indicate that combinations with AEA, WPC, and RET showed improved flow characteristics compared to the reference mix, while ACC combination showed reduced flowability. For strength properties, AEA, WPC, and ACC combinations demonstrated enhanced performance, with WPC showing the highest improvement in compressive strength (6% increase) and AEA showing the most significant improvement in flexural strength (13% increase). The RET combination showed reduced strength properties compared to the reference mix. All admixture combinations can be effectively used in practical applications without compatibility issues.