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Rheology of fresh concrete: from measurements to predictions of casting processes

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Abstract

This paper tries to make a link between the measurements of the rheological properties of fresh concrete (yield stress and thixotropy) and casting processes. In the first part, methods allowing for the measurement of the yield stress of a given concrete without the use of a rheometer will be described. In a second part, a thixotropy model allowing for the prediction of the apparent yield stress of the material as a function of its flow history will be presented. Finally, in the last part, prediction methods of casting process will be presented. These methods can be considered as practical tools allowing for the prediction of formwork filling, pressure formwork or multilayer casting occurrence. Moreover, they contribute to bringing rheology from research and development into the field of practical applications.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Laboratoire Central des Ponts et Chaussées, Paris, France

    Nicolas Roussel

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  1. Nicolas Roussel
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Correspondence to Nicolas Roussel.

Additional information

Dr Nicolas Roussel presented a lecture of this paper at the 2007 RILEM annual week in Ghent, Belgium, as he was awarded the 2007 Robert L’Hermite Medal in recognition of his work on rheology of concrete.

The L’Hermite Award Committee for 2007 decided to recommend the prize to Dr Roussel in recognition of his extensive scientific work within rheology of concrete. In particular his physical analysis of concrete rheology and his ability to combine experimental and theoretical work are of high quality.

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Roussel, N. Rheology of fresh concrete: from measurements to predictions of casting processes. Mater Struct 40, 1001–1012 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1617/s11527-007-9313-2

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