Approximately 11,000m3 of underwater concrete were poured to form a 10m deep mass concrete plinth for seismic stability, as part of a recent naval dockyard redevelopment. The concrete satisfied stringent requirements, including the ability of flow and self compact whilst resisting segregation and washout, with a low risk of early-age thermal cracking.

Optimisation of aggregates and admixtures was achieved by extensive trial mixing, using standard and non-standard tests to refine the rheological properties of the concrete. The mix utilised ground granulated blastfurnace slag and limestone aggregates to control early-age thermal stresses, and incorporated an underwater (anti-washout) admixture and superplasticiser to provide the necessary cohesion and workability.

This paper outlines the mix development including details on laboratory and field trials. Limitations of test methods when assessing self-compacting concrete workability are also addressed. Practical considerations in the control of self-compacting concrete are discussed including methods of the site control implemented, which were established by the trials.

  • INTRODUCTION

  • MIX DEVELOPMENT

  • MIX SENSITIVITY TRIALS

  • MIX CONTROL

  • CONCLUSIONS

  • REFERENCES

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