Practical Evaluation of Using Lightweight Self-Compacting Concrete in Reinforced Concrete Constructions

Self-compacting concrete or SCC can be considered as the concrete of the future. The most important feature of self-compacting concrete is flowing under its own weight to fill the mould or framework completely, and also to create a dense and sufficiently homogeneous mix between the bars, without any need for vibration. But the excessive Liquidity of this concrete increases the hydrostatic pressure on the frameworks. So, decrease in the weight of self-compacting concrete could be lead to reducing the pressure on frameworks. It is also clear that decreasing the density of concrete has a significant effect on the reduction of the structure’s weight and will lead to decrease in the size of structural elements. On the other hand, there are general concerns about the segregation of lightweight aggregates during transportation or placing. In this research, the ability of maintaining the homogeneity of the mixture and the mechanical properties of lightweight self-compacting concrete (LWSCC) made with common lightweight aggregates in the country including Scoria, Leca and Pumice, has been investigated on concrete columns, using the Semi-destructive and non-destructive methods. To do this, reinforced concrete columns made by self-compacting concrete were investigated using a semi-destructive core test to determine the compressive strength and impermeability. Non-destructive ultrasonic test at different heights of the columns was also conducted. The results showed that Scoria aggregate had generally better performance in self-compacting concrete compared to other lightweight aggregates.