Durability and performance assessment of high-strength self-compacting concrete under environmental stressors

Self-compacting concrete (SCC) is widely acclaimed for its excellent flowability and capacity to compact exclusively under the power of gravity with no need for mechanical vibration. Yet, ensuring reproducible performance while minimizing typical problems like bleeding and segregation has long been a key concern. Addition of mineral admixtures such as ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS), silica fume, and fly ash in the proportion of 5% to 30% has been found to improve the workability of the material and help in the production of high-strength types. This research investigates long-term durability properties of high-strength self-compacting concrete (HSSCC) in M60 and M70 grade, especially regarding resistance to environmental factors like acid attack, chloride and sulfate exposure, water absorption, effects of high temperatures, and rapid chloride ion penetration. The findings are reflective of high durability performance, especially among mixes with silica fume, which showed better densification of the matrix. Rapid Chloride Penetration Test (RCPT) results, as performed according to ASTM C1202, indicated that the concrete was of low permeability based on the finer pore structure imparted by the addition of silica fume and GGBFS. Overall, the results affirm the durability and resistance of the modified HSSCC under severe environmental exposure.