A study of the interaction between viscosity modifying agent and high range water reducer in self compacting concrete

This study pertains to the interactions between a water soluble polysaccharide VMA and two types of HRWRs (one based on sulfonated naphthalene formaldehyde SNF - and the other on polycarboxylic ether - PCE - technology) in an SCC system. The experimental investigation includes the evaluation of cement paste rheological parameters using a rheometer as well as empirical laboratory tests on flowability of cement paste produced using these admixtures. Results indicate that while both types of HRWRs are compatible with the VMA used (Welan gum), the pseudoplastic nature of the VMA and thixotropy of paste depends on the type of HRWR used.