In the quest to optimize self-compacting concrete (SCC) for large-scale construction projects, a recent study published in *Materials Research Express* has shed new light on the multiscale effects of mineral admixtures on the rheological properties of cementitious systems. Led by Xin Che of Lunan High Speed Railway Co., Ltd, the research delves into the intricate interplay between fly ash (FA) and ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS) and their impact on the fluidity and rheological behavior of concrete mixes at the paste, mortar, and SCC scales.
The study employed advanced multiscale rheometers and sophisticated rheological models to evaluate the effects of FA and GGBS at varying dosages (0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%). The findings revealed a consistent trend: FA significantly enhanced the fluidity and rheological properties of the mixes, while GGBS had the opposite effect. “The yield stresses of paste, mortar, and SCC containing 30% FA were reduced by 51.2%, 6.5%, and 77.6%, respectively, and their plastic viscosities were reduced by 16.7%, 6.3%, and 7.6%, respectively,” Che explained. In contrast, the yield stresses and plastic viscosities of mixes containing 30% GGBS increased by 16.7%, 6.3%, and 7.6%, and 50.1%, 10.2%, and 32.2%, respectively.
The implications of these findings are substantial for the construction and energy sectors, where the demand for high-performance, cost-effective, and sustainable concrete solutions is ever-growing. “Understanding the rheological properties of SCC at different scales is crucial for optimizing mix designs and ensuring construction quality control,” Che noted. The study’s correlation analyses confirmed the two-phase assumption of SCC, demonstrating that the rheological properties of SCC are closely related to those of the paste and mortar. This insight could pave the way for more efficient and precise mix design processes, ultimately reducing material waste and enhancing the durability of structures.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the need for innovative solutions that balance performance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness becomes increasingly paramount. This research provides a valuable reference for engineers and researchers aiming to push the boundaries of concrete technology. By leveraging the insights gained from this study, the industry can move towards more efficient and sustainable construction practices, benefiting both the environment and the bottom line.
The study, titled “Multi-scale effects of FA and GGBS on rheological properties of cementitious systems: from paste to self-compacting concrete,” was published in *Materials Research Express*, a journal that translates to *Materials Research Express* in English. The research not only advances our understanding of the fundamental properties of SCC but also offers practical guidance for its application in real-world construction projects. As the industry continues to seek ways to improve the performance and sustainability of concrete, this study serves as a beacon of progress, illuminating the path forward for future developments in the field.