Concrete, fresh: Compactibility with ic-tester (intensive compaction tester) (NT BUILD 427)

Abstract

SCOPE

The IC-tester compacts the mass sample (ca. 0.8 dm3) using a continuous, kneading action. Pressure and cyclic shearing is applied to the mass. At the end of the test an ICT-index is obtained which describes the amount of work needed to compact the sample to a specified density. The compaction takes place in a test cylinder with oscillating end plates in such a way that the concrete mass is subjected to cyclic shearing. The concrete cylinder which is obtained after the compaction may be subjected to compressive or splitting strength tests at different ages. This method can be employed in quality control of concrete as well as in research and product development.

FIELD OF APPLICATION

This test method is applicable to fresh concrete with a slump less than ca. 2 cm and VB-times longer than ca. 5 sec. The maximum particle size of aggregate is 20 % of the diameter of the working cylinder. Stiff concrete masses are used in the manufacture of concrete elements, pavements, roofing tiles, pipes and in road building. The masses are compacted by means of pressure and vibration, extrusion or rolling.