Axi-Symmetric Simulation of the Slump Flow Test for Self-Compacting

One of the main obstacles for further development of Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC)is to relate the fresh concrete properties, form geometry, reinforcement configuration, and casting technique to the form filling ability. Simulation of the filling ability might provide a tool in obtaining this goal. For simulation according to a continuum mechanical approach, the rheological properties are required. However, in connection with onsite jobs, it is only possible to characterise the flow properties or workability according to simple empirical test methods, and among the most popular is the slump flow test. This paper presents a numerical axi-symmetric approach for simulation of the slump flow test. Simulations are compared to experimental test results on the rheological properties and slump flow. Former rheological investigations on SCC indicate a non-Newtonian behaviour according to the Bingham model.