Formwork pressure generated by self-compacting concrete

In this paper an experimental study on formwork pressure exerted by Self Compacting Concrete is reported. The aim of the investigation was to describe the behavior of the SCC by using of instrumented formworks provided with pressure sensors. The effects of various casting rates (from 3m/h to 12m/h) and different SCC mix compositions were studied. The influence of different structural shapes were also investigated and in-situ measurements of formwork pressure were carried out during the casting of real walls and columns. Time evolution of the formwork pressures for several hours after the conclusion of the casts were also described . Results clearly showed that, due to their high fluidity, SCCs can behave hydrostatically and generate formwork pressures equivalent to those of a fluid having the same concrete density. However, data indicate that the main variable affecting the magnitude of the formwork pressure is the casting rate. Adoption of lower water/binder ratios when preparing Self-Compacting Concrete also suggested the possibility to produce concrete with lower pressure.