A new method to quantify the robustness of self-consolidating grouts

Abstract

There are different methods in literature to evaluate the robustness of highly fluid cementitious mixtures. However, no one of them gained widely acceptance due to the relative advantages and disadvantages involved in each of them. Therefore, there is still need for further research on this topic. This study proposes a new and relatively easy method for quantifying the robustness of self-consolidating grouts by calculating so-called robustness indices. Due to the more difficulty to produce robust mixtures for highly fluid mixtures obtained by very powerful chemicals, the method is based on the variations in the superplasticizer (SP) type and amount. Mineral admixture (fly ash or limestone powder) usage and water-to-binder ratio (w/b) were other parameters investigated in this study. It was found that SP type was the most important factor affecting the robustness. The effect of w/b was less when compared to SP type. The mixtures containing naphthalene-based SP were more robust than those containing polycarboxylate-based SP. Mineral admixture type and amount had the least effect on robustness. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.