Rheological properties are of significant importance in successful placement and performance of self-compacting concrete (SCC). In this work, the rheological properties of SCC, combined with a powder-viscosity modifying admixture, were investigated based on a series of experimental studies. The modified Bingham model was applied to determine the rheological parameters and shear thickening behavior of SCC. The effects of mixing procedures, including charging sequence, mixing time and mixing speed, were analyzed. The results show that the shear thickening of SCC is reduced by first mixing the aggregate and water and then adding other raw materials. The direct contact between aggregate and water leads to a large amount of free water to be adsorbed by the aggregate system, resulting in an increase of the yield stress. In order to ensure an excellent fluidity and a low shear thickening behavior of SCC, the mixing time should be controlled at 4-5 min and the mixing speed at 30-45 r/min.

Pumping is the most common technique used to transport fresh concrete in construction sites. The large-scale use of concrete all over the world makes the pumping increasingly important. A wide variety of additives and admixtures are incorporated into modern concrete in order for sustainable development. The performance of modern concrete is rather complex and its pumping behavior differs significantly from that of conventional concrete, especially in the fresh stage. This paper presents a comprehensive overview on the state of the art of concrete pumping. The models and methods used for characterizing the concrete pumpability and lubrication layer are described. The factors influencing the pumping behavior are discussed. A couple of ultra-high pumping engineering of concrete conducted in China are introduced.