Experimental study on variation in rheological properties of concrete subjected to pressure and shearing by pumping

In the pumping process, concrete moves along the pipe and experiences both pressure and shear. This changes the workability and flow characteristics of the concrete. However, the effect of pressure and shear on the change in properties of concrete during the pumping process has not yet been accurately identified. This study analyzed the effects of pressure and shear on the properties of concrete during pumping. For quantitative tests, lab-scale test equipment capable of simulating the pressure and shear applied to concrete during pumping was used. For one coarse aggregate type, two paste types, three mortar types, and five concrete types, the effects of pressure, shear, and shear under pressure conditions were examined by varying the maximum pressure (0 to 200 bar) and the rotational speed of the vane for shear (0 to 180 rpm). Under the maximum pressure condition of 200 bar, the water absorption of coarse aggregate increased by 0.62% and that of fine aggregate also increased. When the concrete was under pressure, significant changes (a reduction in a slump and an increase in viscosity and yield stress) compared with the effect of the elapsed time occurred owing to an increase in the water absorption of the aggregates. When both pressure and shear were applied to concrete, both the slump and viscosity decreased. As the rotational speed of the vane increased, changes in properties became significant. Shearing in the absence of pressure maintained the properties of concrete. However, shearing under pressure conditions caused a reduction in slump and viscosity.