Automatic image analysis process to appraise segregation resistance of self-consolidating concrete Available to Purchase

The segregation of coarse aggregate in self-consolidating concrete (SCC) can result in some defects in the long-term properties of concrete. In this study, an image processing algorithm has been proposed and implemented, using standard coding languages, to assess segregation of the SCC mixtures. This algorithm has been designed to evaluate the distribution of coarse aggregate and the average thickness of the mortar band layer of SCC. Seven mixtures containing fly ash and silica fume as partial replacements for cement were analysed. Slump, J-ring flow and compressive strength of the samples were also measured. The results revealed that an increase in fly ash replacement resulted in a higher segregation index and a higher ratio of mortar band thickness. However, substitution of silica fume caused a lower segregation index and a lower ratio of mortar band thickness. The results demonstrate that there is a high degree of correlation between the segregation index and the mortar band thickness in all the mixtures.