Effect of Pumping on Properties of Bridge Concrete
Publication: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 12, Issue 3
Abstract
Pumping of concrete is widely used in large highway projects due to convenience and economy of placement. The short-term effects of pumping on the durability of concrete is well documented, whereas the long-term effects on concrete durability is not known. Both types of effects were studied herein through collection and testing of 73 concrete samples from the Florida Department of Transportation bridge construction sites before and after pumping. The tests performed were air content, slump, unit weight, compressive strength, rapid chloride permeability, and water permeability. The air content and the slump of concrete decreased by about 1% and 13 mm (0.5 in.) on average, respectively, due to pumping. The unit weight and compressive strength of concrete were found to increase by about 24 kg/m3 (1.5 pcf) and 1.83 MPa (266 psi), respectively, due to pumping. Although test results are not statistically significant, pumping decreased the water and chloride ion permeabilities in the majority of tested samples. Results show that pumping does not have detrimental effects on concrete properties. In many cases, it results in stronger, denser, and more durable concrete. It is suggested that pumping be continued as a means of concrete placement in Florida Department of Transportation projects with confidence.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 12 • Issue 3 • August 2000
Pages: 212 - 219
History
Received: May 24, 1999
Published online: Aug 1, 2000
Published in print: Aug 2000
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