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ACI ITG-4.

2R-06

Materials and Quality Considerations


for High-Strength Concrete in Moderate
to High Seismic Applications

Reported by ACI Innovation Task Group 4 and Other Contributors


First printing
October 2006
®
American Concrete Institute
Advancing concrete knowledge

Materials and Quality Considerations for High-Strength Concrete


in Moderate to High-Seismic Applications

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ACI ITG-4.2R-06

Materials and Quality Considerations for


High-Strength Concrete in Moderate to High
Seismic Applications
Reported by ACI Innovation Task Group 4 and Other Contributors

ACI Innovation Task Group 4


S. K. Ghosh
Chair

Joseph M. Bracci D. Kirk Harman Adolfo Matamoros


Michael A. Caldarone Daniel C. Jansen Andrew W. Taylor

Other contributors
Dominic J. Kelly Andres Lepage Henry G. Russell

This document addresses materials and quality considerations when using CONTENTS
cast-in-place, normalweight, high-strength concrete in structures that must Chapter 1—Introduction, p. ITG-4.2R-2
be designed for moderate to high seismic applications. 1.1—Background
The term “high-strength concrete,” as defined by ACI Committee 363, 1.2—Scope
refers to concrete having a specified compressive strength for design of
8000 psi (55 MPa) or greater. The lower 6000 psi (41 MPa) threshold,
however, was chosen for the ITG-4 document series because it deals with a Chapter 2—Preamble, p. ITG-4.2R-3
specialized application of high-strength concrete in areas of moderate
to high seismicity. Chapter 3—Glossary of terms, p. ITG-4.2R-4
An accompanying standard, ITG-4.1, is written in mandatory language
in a format that can be adopted by local jurisdictions, and will allow Chapter 4—Properties of high-strength concrete,
building officials to approve the use of high-strength concrete on projects p. ITG-4.2R-5
that are being constructed under the provisions of ACI 301 and 318. ITG 4.2R 4.1—Mechanical properties
is the supporting document for that standard. 4.2—Durability properties
ITG 4 has also developed another nonmandatory language document:
ITG-4.3R. It addresses structural design and detailing considerations.
4.3—Constructibility properties

Keywords: curing; high-strength concrete; mixture proportioning; Chapter 5—Raw materials, p. ITG-4.2R-10
placement; preconstruction meeting; production; project specification;
quality control; seismic design; supplementary cementitious materials; Chapter 6—Mixture proportioning, p. ITG-4.2R-11
temperature; trial batches. 6.1—Required strength
6.2—Water-cementitious material ratio
6.3—Cementitious materials content
6.4—Air entrainment
ACI Committee Reports, Guides, Standard Practices, and 6.5—Aggregates
Commentaries are intended for guidance in planning, 6.6—Supplementary cementitious materials
designing, executing, and inspecting construction. This
document is intended for the use of individuals who are 6.7—Chemical admixtures
competent to evaluate the significance and limitations of its 6.8—Combinations of supplementary cementitious
content and recommendations and who will accept materials and chemical admixtures
responsibility for the application of the material it contains.
The American Concrete Institute disclaims any and all 6.9—Proportioning for workability
responsibility for the stated principles. The Institute shall not 6.10—Trial batches
be liable for any loss or damage arising therefrom.
Reference to this document shall not be made in contract ACI ITG-4.2R-06 became effective August 15, 2006.
documents. If items found in this document are desired by the Copyright © 2006, American Concrete Institute.
Architect/Engineer to be a part of the contract documents, they All rights reserved including rights of reproduction and use in any form or by any
shall be restated in mandatory language for incorporation by means, including the making of copies by any photo process, or by electronic or
mechanical device, printed, written, or oral, or recording for sound or visual reproduction
the Architect/Engineer. or for use in any knowledge or retrieval system or device, unless permission in writing
is obtained from the copyright proprietors.

ITG-4.2R-1
ITG-4.2R-2 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

Chapter 7—Mixture submittal requirements, Evaluation Report titled “Seismic Design Utilizing High-
p. ITG-4.2R-16 Strength Concrete (ER-5536)” (ICC Evaluation Service, Inc.
2004). Evaluation Reports (ERs) are issued by Evaluation
Chapter 8—Preconstruction meetings, Service subsidiaries of model code groups. An ER essentially
p. ITG-4.2R-16
8.1—Batching states that, although a particular method, process, or product
8.2—Transportation is not specifically addressed by a particular edition of a
8.3—Placement certain model code, it is in compliance with the requirements
of that particular edition of that model code.
Chapter 9—Ordering, p. ITG-4.2R-18 ER-5536, first issued in April 2001, was generated for the
seismic design of moment-resisting frame elements using
Chapter 10—Raw materials handling, p. ITG-4.2R-18 high-strength concrete. High-strength concrete was defined as
“normalweight concrete with a design compressive strength
Chapter 11—Production and delivery, p. ITG-4.2R-18 greater than 6000 psi (41.3 MPa) and up to a maximum of
12,000 psi (82.7 MPa).” It was based on research carried out
Chapter 12—Concrete temperature control, at the University of Southern California and the University of
p. ITG-4.2R-18 California at San Diego to support building construction in
Southern California using concrete with compressive
Chapter 13—Placement, consolidation, and
finishing, p. ITG-4.2R-19 strengths greater than 6000 psi (41 MPa). ER-5536 is avail-
able on the ICC website (http://www.icc-es.org/).
Chapter 14—Curing, p. ITG-4.2R-19 The Portland Cement Association (PCA) performed a
review of the aforementioned document,* which brought up
Chapter 15—Raw material sampling and testing, several concerns that focused on inconsistencies between the
p. ITG-4.2R-20 ER and existing industry documents in two primary areas:
15.1—Sampling method material and structural aspects. Irrespective of those
15.2—Sample identification concerns, it was evident that the ER had been created because
15.3—Testing quality assurance and design provisions are needed by local
jurisdictions in cities such as Los Angeles to allow the use of
Chapter 16—Concrete sampling and testing, high-strength concrete in a safe manner. ACI has assumed a
p. ITG-4.2R-20
16.1—Sampling and testing schedule proactive role in the development of such provisions with the
goal of creating a document that can be adopted nationwide.
Chapter 17—Summary and recommendations, Within ACI, Committee 363, High Strength Concrete, was
p. ITG-4.2R-21 considered the best choice to develop the section addressing
17.1—Raw materials materials quality considerations aspects of the document,
17.2—Mixture proportioning while ACI Committee 318-H, Structural Concrete Building
17.3—Mixture submittal requirements Code—Seismic Provisions, was considered the logical
17.4—Preconstruction meetings choice to address seismic detailing aspects. Because ACI
17.5—Ordering Committee 318-H is a subcommittee of a code-writing body,
17.6—Raw materials handling the development of a technical document of this kind is not
17.7—Production and delivery part of its intended mission. Also, producing a document by
17.8—Concrete temperature control a technical committee is typically a lengthy process. Based
17.9—Placement, consolidation, and finishing on these limitations, a request was made to form an Innovation
17.10—Curing Task Group (ITG) that would have the advantage of
17.11—Raw materials sampling and testing completing the desired product within a shorter timeline. In
17.12—Concrete sampling and testing response to the request, the Technical Activities Committee
(TAC) of ACI approved the formation of ITG 4. Following
Chapter 18—References, p. ITG-4.2R-23 the approval by TAC, David Darwin, then Chair of the TAC
18.1—Referenced standards and reports Technology Transfer Committee (TTTC), established the
18.2—Cited references mission of the ITG. The mission is to develop an ACI document
that addresses the application of high-strength concrete in
Appendix—Sample agenda for preconstruction structures located in areas of moderate and high seismicity.
meeting concerning high-strength concrete, The document is intended to cover structural design, material
p. ITG-4.2R-26 properties, construction procedures, and quality-control
measures. It is to be written or contain example language in
CHAPTER 1—INTRODUCTION
1.1—Background a format that will allow building officials to approve the use
The origin of ACI’s Innovation Task Group (ITG) 4, of high-strength concrete in projects that are being
High-Strength Concrete for Seismic Applications, can be constructed under the provisions of ACI 301 and 318.
traced back to an International Conference of Building
Officials (ICBO) (now International Code Council [ICC]) *Unpublished report available from PCA, Skokie, Ill., Aug. 2001.
MATERIALS AND QUALITY CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE ITG-4.2R-3

The concept of “areas of moderate and high seismicity” application of high-strength concrete application in areas of
goes back to the days when U.S. seismic codes used to divide moderate to high seismicity.
the country into seismic zones, which were regions in which Even though high-strength concrete is defined based on a
seismic ground motion on rock, corresponding to a certain threshold compressive strength, the concept of “high
probability of occurrence, was within certain ranges. Given strength” is relative. The limit at which concrete is considered
that public safety is a primary code objective and that not all to be “high-strength” depends largely on the location in which
buildings in a given seismic zone are equally crucial to it is being used. For example, in some regions, structures are
public safety, a new mechanism for triggering seismic design routinely designed with concrete having specified compressive
requirements and restrictions, called the seismic performance strengths of 12,000 psi (83 MPa) or higher, whereas in other
category (SPC), was developed. The SPC classification regions, concrete with a much lower specified compressive
included not only the seismicity at the site, but also the strength is considered high-strength concrete. Essentially,
occupancy of the structure. Recognizing that building perfor- the strength threshold at which concrete is considered “high-
mance during a seismic event depends not only on the severity strength” depends on regional factors, such as the charac-
of subsurface rock motion, but also on the type of soil upon teristics and availability of raw materials, production
which a structure is founded, seismic design criteria in more capabilities, testing capabilities, and lastly, experience on
recent seismic codes are based on seismic design categories the part of the concrete supplier.
(SDCs). The SDC is a function of location, building occupancy,
Although for the purpose of this document 6000 psi (42 MPa)
and soil type. The TTTC-established mission of ITG 4 is
was selected as the threshold compressive strength, this is
interpreted to mean that the task group is to address the
not intended to imply that any drastic change in material
application of high-strength concrete in structures:
properties or in production techniques occurs at this particular
• Located in Seismic Zones 2, 3, or 4 of the “Uniform compressive strength. In reality, the changes in material
Building Code”;
properties that take place occur gradually with respect to
• Assigned to SPCs C, D, or E of the “BOCA/National compressive strength.
Building Code” (1993 and subsequent editions) or the
The ITG-4 series consists of three documents. ITG-4.1
“Standard Building Code” (1994 or subsequent
deals with materials and quality considerations and is an ACI
editions); or
Reference Specification that the licensed design professional
• SDCs C, D, E, or F of the “International Building
can make applicable to any construction project by citing it
Code” or the National Fire Protection Association
in the Project Specifications. The licensed design profes-
(NFPA) 5000 “Building Construction and Safety Code.”
sional is expected to supplement the provisions of ITG-4.1 as
SPC or SDC C is also referred to as the “intermediate”
needed by specifying individual project requirements. The
SPCs or SDCs. Similarly, SPCs D and E or SDCs D, E, and
requirements of ITG-4.1 are in addition to those of ACI 301
F are referred to as “high” SPCs or SDCs. The terminology,
and 318. It is expected that an authority having jurisdiction
“moderate to high seismic applications,” however, is used
will approve the use of high-strength concrete on a project
throughout the ITG 4 documents.
when the Project Specifications include the mandatory
When TAC approved the formation of ITG 4, the approval
requirements of ITG-4.1 in their entirety. ITG-4.2R (this
was to “create a nonmandatory standard on the use of high-
document) is the support document upon which the require-
strength concrete in moderate to high seismic applications.”
ments of ITG-4.1 are based. ITG-4.3R is on structural design
After some discussion at the TTTC meeting that followed, a
and detailing. Certain modifications to ACI 318 require-
concern was raised that a nonmandatory standard might not
ments are proposed in the last chapter of ITG-4.3R. These
be able to fully satisfy the goals of the ITG, specifically
modifications are expected to be considered by ACI
providing a document that could be implemented with the
Committee 318 for inclusion in ACI 318-08.
approval of a building official.

1.2—Scope CHAPTER 2—PREAMBLE


The ITG 4 document series addresses the material and design From a materials perspective, there are few differences
considerations when using cast-in-place normalweight between the requisite properties of high-strength concrete used
concretes having specified compressive strengths of 6000 in seismic applications and those of high-strength concrete
psi (41 MPa) or greater in structures that must be designed used in nonseismic applications; therefore, the information
for moderate to high seismic applications. Irrespective of presented in ITG-4.2R is generally applicable to all high-
seismic zone, SPC, or SDC, the ITG-4 document series is strength concrete. When special considerations are warranted
also applicable to cast-in-place normalweight high-strength due to seismic applications, they are addressed specifically.
concrete in intermediate or special moment frames and inter- The information in Chapters 3 through 16 of this document is
mediate or special structural walls as defined in ACI 318. presented in a format similar to that of a committee report.
The term “high-strength concrete,” as defined by ACI Chapter 17 contains a summary of the information presented
Committee 363, refers to concrete having a specified and recommendations that an authority may choose to adopt
compressive strength for design of 8000 psi (55 MPa) or as the basis for a specification. ITG-4.1 is a mandatory-
greater. The lower 6000 psi (41 MPa) threshold was chosen language version of the recommendations in Chapter 17 of
for the ITG-4 documents because they deal with a specialized ITG-4.2R.
ITG-4.2R-4 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

CHAPTER 3—GLOSSARY OF TERMS formation during early hydration, particularly from excessively
The terminology used in this document is in substantial high concrete temperatures at early ages.
agreement with ACI 116R and 318. When the definitions of density—mass per unit volume.
a term in ACI 116R and 318 differ, the ACI 318 definition is ettringite—a naturally occurring mineral, calcium trisul-
adopted. foaluminate hydrate, with the chemical composition
admixture—material other than water, aggregate, or Ca6Al2S3O18·32H2O, normal product of cement hydration;
hydraulic cement, used as an ingredient of concrete and also formed by sulfate attack on mortar or concrete.
added to concrete before or during mixing to modify its evaporation retardant—long-chain organic material such
properties. as cetyl alcohol that, when spread on a water film on the
aggregate—granular material, such as sand, gravel, crushed surface of concrete, retards the evaporation of bleed water.
stone, and iron blast-furnace slag, used with a cementing false set—the rapid development of rigidity in a freshly
medium to form a hydraulic cement concrete or mortar. mixed portland cement paste, mortar, or concrete without the
alkali-aggregate reaction (AAR)—chemical reaction in evolution of much heat, in which rigidity can be dispelled and
either mortar or concrete between alkalies (sodium and plasticity regained by further mixing without addition of water.
potassium) from portland cement or other sources and certain flash set—the rapid development of rigidity in a freshly
constituents of some aggregates; under certain conditions, mixed portland cement paste, mortar, or concrete, character-
deleterious expansion of concrete or mortar may result. istically with the evolution of considerable heat, in which
alkali-silica reaction (ASR)—the reaction between the rigidity cannot be dispelled nor can the plasticity be regained
alkalies (sodium and potassium) in portland cement and by further mixing without the addition of water.
certain siliceous rocks or minerals, such as opaline chert, flowing concrete—concrete that maintains a slump
strained quartz, and acidic volcanic glass, present in some greater than 7-1/2 in. (190 mm) while remaining cohesive.
aggregates; the products of the reaction may cause abnormal mass concrete—a volume of concrete with dimensions
expansion and cracking of concrete in service. large enough to require that measures be taken to cope with
bleeding—the autogenous flow of mixing water within, or the generation of heat and temperature gradients from hydration
its emergence from, newly placed concrete or mortar; caused of the cementitious materials and attendant volume change.
by the settlement of the solid materials within the mass; also modulus of elasticity—ratio of normal stress to corre-
called water gain. sponding strain for tensile or compressive stress below the
cementitious materials—materials that have cementing proportional limit of the material, determined in accordance
value when used in concrete, either by themselves, such as with ASTM C 469.
portland cement, blended hydraulic cements, and expansive modulus of rupture ( fr)—a measure of the load-carrying
cement, or in combination with fly ash, other raw or calcined capacity of a beam and sometimes referred to as rupture
natural pozzolans, silica fume, and/or ground-granulated modulus or rupture strength; it is calculated for apparent
blast-furnace slag. tensile stress in the extreme tension fiber of a test specimen
concrete, compressive strength of—the measured subject to bending under the load that produces rupture. It is
maximum resistance of a concrete or mortar specimen to axial determined in accordance with ASTM C 78 (third-point
compressive loading; expressed as force per unit cross-sectional loading) or ASTM C 293 (center-point loading).
area; or the specified resistance used in design calculations. normal-strength concrete—structural concrete that is
below the strength threshold defining high-strength concrete.
concrete, high-strength—concrete that has a specified
Poisson’s ratio—the absolute value of the ratio of transverse
compressive strength of 6000 psi (41 MPa) or greater.
(lateral) strain to the corresponding axial (longitudinal)
concrete, hydraulic-cement—mixture of portland
strain resulting from uniformly distributed axial stress below
cement or any other hydraulic cement, fine aggregate, coarse
the proportional limit of the material; the value will average
aggregate, and water, with or without admixtures.
approximately 0.20 for concrete and 0.25 for most metals.
concrete, specified compressive strength of (fc′ )— pozzolan—a siliceous or siliceous and aluminous material
compressive strength of concrete used in design. that in itself possesses little or no cementitious value but that
consistency—the relative mobility or ability of freshly will, in finely divided form and in the presence of moisture,
mixed concrete or mortar to flow; the usual measurements chemically react with calcium hydroxide at ordinary temper-
are slump or spread for concrete, flow for mortar or grout, atures to form compounds having cementitious properties.
and penetration resistance for neat cementitious paste. quality assurance (QA)—all the planned and systematic
creep—time-dependent increase in deformation due to activities implemented within the quality assurance and
sustained load; determined in accordance with ASTM C 512. control system and demonstrated as needed, to provide
creep coefficient—strain due to creep divided by the adequate confidence that an entity will fulfill requirements
initial elastic strain. for quality. There are both internal and external purposes for
curing—provision of moisture and appropriate temperatures quality assurance. Internal quality assurance, within an
for sufficient time for the concrete to develop the required organization, provides confidence to management. External
properties. quality assurance, in contractual or other situations, provides
delayed ettringite formation (DEF)—a form of internal confidence to the owner or others (such as building officials
sulfate attack caused by the suppression of normal ettringite or government agencies).
MATERIALS AND QUALITY CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE ITG-4.2R-5

quality control (QC)—actions taken by a concrete (fresh) and the hardened state. For concrete to be used
producer or contractor to provide and document control over successfully, consideration should be given to all essential
what is being done and what is being provided so that the concrete properties, not just a few.
applicable standards of good practice and the contract Concrete is a composite material consisting of a filler and
documents for the work are followed. a binder. In hydraulic-cement concrete, aggregates act as the
rheology—the science dealing with flow of materials, filler, which are bound together by a paste that usually
including studies of deformation of hardened concrete, the consists of cementitious materials, water, hydration products,
handling and placing of freshly mixed concrete, and the and admixtures.
behavior of slurries, pastes, and the like. As the strength of concrete increases, the material proper-
sand equivalent test—a rapid field-correlation test to ties change. Although property changes occur gradually with
indicate the relative proportion of plastic fines and dust to increasing strength, the material properties of high-strength
sand size particles in granular soil and fine aggregate that concrete can be quite different from those of normal-strength
pass a No. 4 (4.75 mm) sieve. concrete. The fundamental difference between normal-
segregation—the differential concentration of the strength and high-strength concrete is the relative difference in
components of mixed concrete, such as aggregate, resulting the mechanical properties of the paste versus the aggregate.
in nonuniform proportions in the mass. Upon failure in axial compression in normal-strength concrete,
self-consolidating concrete—fresh concrete that can flow fracturing is more likely to occur through the paste and along
around reinforcement and consolidate within formwork the surface of the aggregate, whereas in high-strength concrete,
under its own weight without vibration, and that exhibits no fracturing is more likely to pass through the aggregate.
defect due to segregation or bleeding.
shrinkage—decrease in either length or volume. (Note: 4.1—Mechanical properties
may be restricted to the effects of moisture content or Important mechanical properties related to high-strength
chemical changes). concrete in seismic applications include the relationship
slump—a measure of consistency of freshly mixed between stress and strain in axial compression, the modulus
concrete, mortar, or stucco equal to the subsidence measured of elasticity, and the compressive strength. Depending on the
to the nearest 1/4 in. (6 mm) of the molded specimen intended seismic performance of the structural system,
immediately after removal of the slump cone, determined in special considerations may need to be given to ensure that
accordance with ASTM C 143. the mechanical properties of the concrete are compatible
specific creep—strain due to creep, caused by stresses with the structural design assumptions.
within the elastic range, divided by the applied stress. Other important mechanical properties of high-strength
splitting tensile strength ( fct)—tensile strength of concrete include creep, modulus of rupture, splitting tensile
concrete determined by applying a diametrical compressive strength, Poisson’s ratio, and shrinkage. A brief discussion
force along the length of a cylindrical concrete specimen, in of each property is provided. For further information, refer to
accordance with ASTM C 496. ACI 363R.
spread—the distance of lateral flow that concrete travels 4.1.1 Axial stress versus strain—Axial stress versus strain
using the slump flow test method. curves for concrete with compressive strength up to 14,000 psi
sulfate attack—either a chemical reaction, a physical (96 MPa) are shown in Fig. 4.1. As compressive strength
reaction, or both, between sulfates usually in soil or ground- increases, the shape of the ascending portion of the axial stress-
water and concrete or mortar; the chemical reaction is primarily versus-strain curve becomes steeper and more linear. The
with calcium aluminate hydrates in the cement-paste matrix, strain at maximum stress increases, and the slope of the
often causing deterioration. descending part becomes steeper as concrete strength increases.
sulfate resistance—ability of concrete or mortar to For a given imposed axial strain, high-strength concrete
withstand sulfate attack. exhibits less internal microcracking than normal-strength
supplementary cementitious material—cementitious concrete (Carrasquillo et al. 1981b). As Fig. 4.2 shows, the
materials (such as ground-granulated blast-furnace slag, fly relative increase in lateral strains is less for high-strength
ash, metakaolin, or silica fume) other than cements used in concrete (Ahmad and Shah 1982a). The lower relative lateral
concrete and masonry construction. expansion within the inelastic range means that the effects of
workability—a property of freshly mixed concrete or mortar triaxial stresses may be different for high-strength concrete.
that determines the ease with which it can be mixed, placed, For example, the influence of hoop reinforcement was
consolidated, and finished to a homogeneous condition. observed to be different for high-strength concrete, and it
was reported that the effectiveness of spiral reinforcement is
CHAPTER 4—PROPERTIES OF less for high-strength concrete (Ahmad and Shah 1982b).
HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE 4.1.2 Modulus of elasticity—The modulus of elasticity can
As with all concrete, the properties of high-strength significantly influence the behavior of a high-strength
concrete can be classified into three basic categories: concrete structure, and is therefore a very important mechanical
mechanical, durability, and constructibility. Mechanical and property. In calculations for seismic design of reinforced
durability properties are measured in the hardened state, concrete structures, calculated drift ratios are directly
whereas constructibility properties pertain to both the plastic affected by the modulus of elasticity of the concrete used in
ITG-4.2R-6 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

Table 4.1—Empirical equations for modulus of


elasticity based on curing condition (Myers and
Carrasquillo 1999)
Empirical equation, psi
Curing regime With zero intercept Without zero intercept
ASTM moist-cured
Ec = 56,300fc′ 0.50 Ec = 38,200fc′ 0.50
cylinders + 2,110,000
Ec = 39,900fc′ 0.50
Member-cured cylinders* Ec = 55,050fc′ 0.50
+ 1,730,000
Ec = 17,200fc′ 0.50
Match-cured cylinders† Ec = 55,000fc′ 0.50
+ 4,250,000
*
Member-cured cylinders were placed next to the beams as they cured.

Match-cured cylinders were subjected to identical curing temperatures as the interior
of the beams as measured by thermocouples.
Note: 1 ksi = 1000 psi = 6.895 MPa.

strength concrete, also affect other mechanical properties,


including the modulus of elasticity. Table 4.1 illustrates the
Fig. 4.1—Compressive stress-strain curves for plain normal- differences found in expressions for the modulus of elasticity
density concrete (Jansen et al. 1995). based on curing regime, with and without a zero intercept, as
reported by Myers and Carrasquillo (1999).
Due to the significant influence of the mixture proportions,
aggregate type, aggregate content, and other raw materials,
the modulus of elasticity should be determined based on the
specific concrete mixture proposed for use.
The modulus of elasticity should be determined as early as
possible during the design phase, either through an evaluation
program involving field trials or based on previously
documented field performance data.
4.1.3 Creep—Parrott (1969) reported that the total strain
observed in sealed high-strength concrete under a sustained
loading of 30% of the ultimate strength was the same as that
of normal-strength concrete when expressed as a ratio of the
Fig. 4.2—Axial stress versus axial strain and lateral strain
short-term strain. Under drying conditions, this ratio was
for plain normal-density concrete (adapted from Ahmad and
Shah [1982a]). 25% lower than that for normal-strength concrete. The total
long-term strains of drying and sealed high-strength concrete
were 15 and 65% lower, respectively, than for a corre-
structural members. The modulus of elasticity can be sponding lower-strength concrete at a similar relative stress
influenced by several mixture properties, including the level. Ngab et al. (1980) found little difference between the
compressive strength of the concrete, coarse aggregate creep of high-strength concrete under drying and sealed
content, and the mechanical properties of the coarse aggregate. conditions. Creep of high-strength concrete is reported to
Many investigators (Ahmad 1981; Burg and Ost 1994; decrease significantly when made with high-range water-
Iravani 1996; Kaar et al. 1978; Nedderman 1973; Teychenne et reducing admixtures (Nagataki and Yonekura 1978).
al. 1978) have reported values for the modulus of elasticity of Specific creep was less for high-strength concrete than for
high-strength concrete on the order of 4.5 to 7.5 × 106 psi (31 to normal-strength concrete loaded at the same age (Russell
52 GPa), depending on the method of determination used, raw and Corley 1978; Ngab et al. 1980; Gross and Burns 1999).
materials, and mixture proportioning. Figure 4.3 compares the An example is shown in Fig. 4.4. Because high-strength
modulus of elasticity calculated using several reported empir- concrete is generally subjected to higher stress, the total
ical equations and the expression given in Section 8.5 of ACI creep is often about the same regardless of compressive
318-05. The ACI 318-05 equation was developed from results strength. As in the case of normal-strength concrete, creep
of what are now considered normal-strength concrete, and has decreases as the age at loading increases (Ngab et al. 1980),
been used for high-strength concrete. The equation used in specific creep increases with increased water-cement ratio
Fig. 4.3 is based on a dry unit weight of 145 lb/ft3 (2346 kg/m3). (w/c) (Perenchio and Klieger 1978), and there is a linear
No single empirical expression presented in this section relationship with the applied stress. This linearity extends to
estimates the modulus of elasticity for concrete with a higher stress-strength ratio than for lower-strength
compressive strength over 6000 psi (41 MPa) with a high concrete. No problems due to creep were found in columns
degree of accuracy for the data set given in Fig. 4.3. cast with high-strength concrete (Pfeifer et al. 1971). Gross
As widely reported, curing conditions, which affect the and Burns (1999) reported that creep was largely dependent
development of compressive strength in normal- and high- on the amount of mixing water and suggested that the lower
MATERIALS AND QUALITY CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE ITG-4.2R-7

Fig. 4.3—Modulus of elasticity versus concrete strength (incorporating lower and higher
strength concrete data) (adapted from ACI 363R).

creep values observed in instrumented high-strength


concrete girders may result in less prestress losses compared
with values determined using a method to predict the creep
of normal-strength concrete girders. Mokhtarzadeh and
French (2000a) reported that higher curing temperatures
result in higher specific creep. They also determined that the
general ACI 209R equation was suitable for predicting the
creep coefficient of high-strength concrete at any time, while
others reported contradictory results (Gross and Burns 1999).
4.1.4 Modulus of rupture—ACI 318-05 references Eq. (4-1)
to calculate the modulus of rupture fr of normalweight
concrete. Equation (4-2) was recommended (Ahmad and
Shah 1982a) for the prediction of the modulus of rupture of
normalweight concrete as a function of the compressive
strength (Fig. 4.5)

fr = 7.5( fc′ )0.5 (psi) (4-1)

fr = 0.62( fc′ )0.5 (MPa)

fr = 11.7( fc′ )0.5 (psi) for 3000 psi < fc′ < 12,000 psi (4-2) Fig. 4.4—Relationship between creep coefficient and time
for sealed and unsealed concrete specimens (Kaplan 1959a).
fr = 0.94( fc′ )0.5 (MPa) for 21 MPa < fc′ < 83 MPa
fr = 0.25( fc′ )0.79 (MPa)
Considering data from samples that were either moist or
steam cured, Mokhtarzadeh and French (2000b) recom- 4.1.5 Splitting tensile strength—Dewar (1964) studied the
mended Eq. (4-3), which includes the effects of various relationship between the indirect tensile strength (cylinder
curing regimes splitting strength fct) and the compressive strength of
concretes having compressive strengths of up to 12,100 psi
fr = 0.71( fc′ )0.79 (psi) (4-3) (83.8 MPa) at 28 days. He concluded that for relatively low
ITG-4.2R-8 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

Fig. 4.5—Tensile strength based on modulus of rupture test (adapted from ACI 363R).

Table 4.2—Empirical equations for tensile splitting empirical expressions that are relatively similar. Equation (4-6)
strength based on curing condition (adapted from is based on data from samples that were either moist or steam
ACI 363R) cured (Mokhtarzadeh and French 2000b). Table 4.2 shows a
Empirical equation, psi comparison of empirical equations calibrated with samples
Myers and Mokhtarzadeh and cured in different manners, emphasizing the effects curing
Curing regime Carrasquillo (1999) French (2000b)
can have on splitting tensile strength.
ASTM moist-cured cylinders fct = 8.58fc′ 0.50 fct = 0.42fc′ 0.79

Member-cured cylinders* fct = 8.66fc′ 0.50 —


fct = 6.7( fc′ )0.5 (psi) (4-4)
0.50
Match-cured cylinders † fct = 10.9fc′ —
Steam-cured cylinders — fct = 3.63fc′ 0.57 fct = 0.56( fc′ )0.5 (MPa)
*
Member-cured cylinders were placed next to the beams as they cured.

Match-cured cylinders were subjected to identical curing temperatures as the interior
of the beams, as measured by thermocouples.
Note: 1 ksi = 1000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
fct = 7.4( fc′ )0.5 (psi) for 3000 psi < fc′ < 12,000 psi (4-5)

compressive strengths, the indirect tensile strength may be as fct = 0.61( fc′ )0.5 (MPa) for 21 MPa < fc′ < 83 MPa
high as 10% of the compressive strength, but for higher
strengths, it could decrease to 5%. He observed that the fr = 1.98( fc′ )0.63 (psi) (4-6)
tensile splitting strength was approximately 8% higher for
crushed-rock-aggregate concrete than for gravel-aggregate
concrete. In addition, he found that the indirect tensile fr = 0.32( fc′ )0.63 (MPa)
strength was approximately 70% of the flexural strength at
28 days. Carrasquillo et al. (1981a) reported that the splitting 4.1.6 Poisson’s ratio—Experimental data on values of
strength did not vary much from the usual range shown in Poisson’s ratio for high-strength concrete are very limited.
Fig. 4.6, although as the compressive strength increases, the Perenchio and Klieger (1978) reported that the Poisson’s
values for the splitting strength tend to be near the upper ratio ranged between 0.20 and 0.28 for normalweight high-
limit of the expected range. strength concretes with compressive strengths ranging from
ACI 318-05 indirectly references Eq. (4-4) as its empirical 8000 to 11,600 psi (55 to 80 MPa). They concluded that
expression for the splitting tensile strength of normalweight Poisson’s ratio tends to decrease with increasing w/c. Kaplan
concrete. Carrasquillo et al. (1981a) recommended Eq. (4-5) (1959b) found Poisson’s ratio of concrete determined using
for the calculation of the splitting tensile strength fct of dynamic measurements ranged between 0.23 and 0.32
normalweight concrete. Other researchers have reported regardless of compressive strength, coarse aggregate, and
MATERIALS AND QUALITY CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE ITG-4.2R-9

Fig. 4.6—Tensile strength based on split cylinder test (adapted from ACI 363R).

test age for concretes having compressive strengths ranging ettringite formation (DEF), sulfate attack, and corrosion of
between 2500 and 11,500 psi (17 to 79 MPa). embedded reinforcement.
Based on the available information, the Poisson’s ratio of 4.2.1 Freezing-and-thawing resistance—Air entrainment
high-strength concrete in the elastic range seems comparable has always been considered the most effective means of
to the values expected for normal-strength concrete. ensuring adequate frost resistance. The freezing-and-thawing
4.1.7 Shrinkage—Experimental results have generally not durability of air-entrained concrete is a function of total air
shown clear trends with respect to shrinkage of high-strength content, size and spacing of the air voids, strength, water-
concrete, though it is often suggested that the shrinkage of high- cementitious material ratio (w/cm), and permeability.
strength concrete is similar to the shrinkage of normal-strength Because high-strength concrete is produced using a lower
concrete. Ngab et al. (1980) noted slightly higher shrinkage for w/cm and has lower permeability, ACI 318 permits a reduction
high-strength concrete when compared with normal-strength in permissible air content of up to 1% for concrete having a
concrete made with similar materials. Smadi et al. (1985) also specified compressive strength greater than 5000 psi (34 MPa).
observed higher shrinkage for high-strength concrete (8500 to The results of research (Pinto and Hover 2001) on the
10,000 psi [59 to 69 MPa]) than for normal-strength concrete freezing-and-thawing resistance of high-strength concrete
(5000 to 6000 psi [35 to 41 MPa]), but observed less suggest that the requirements in ACI 318 for total air content
shrinkage for high-strength concrete than for concrete with are conservative. Results indicate that air entrainment may
very low strength (3000 to 3500 psi [21 to 24 MPa]). not be necessary for mixtures with a w/c less than 0.35.
4.2.2 Alkali-silica reactivity—The reaction that can occur
4.2—Durability properties between alkali-reactive aggregates and the alkali hydroxides
For applications involving exterior exposure, or when within concrete, in the presence of moisture, results in
special exposure conditions are encountered, durability- expansive forces that, over time, crack the concrete, thus
related properties should also be considered. Durability- opening a doorway for other aggressive agents such as
related properties include the ability of concrete to resist sulfates, water, and chlorides. For deleterious expansion to
deterioration due to freezing and thawing, fire, aggressive occur, three components are necessary: alkali-reactive
chemical exposure, chemical reactions of aggregates, or aggregate, a sufficiently high quantity of alkali in the
potentially injurious substances, such as chlorides, that could concrete, and moisture. Because high-strength concrete can
attack embedded elements within the concrete. be rich in cementitious material, and therefore alkalis,
Depending on exposure conditions, important durability- caution should be exercised to prevent cracking of high-
related properties of concrete include resistance to freezing strength concrete as a result of ASR expansion. ASTM C
and thawing, alkali-silica reactivity (ASR), delayed 441, C 1260, C 1293, and C 1567 are test methods used to
ITG-4.2R-10 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

evaluate the potential susceptibility of concrete aggregates to attention is given to raw material selection, mixture propor-
ASR. ASTM C 441 and C 1260 are more severe than the tioning, design, and construction.
other two methods, but they are also more rapid tests. ASTM ACI 201.2R provides an extensive discussion of specific
C 441 compares the ability of supplementary cementitious deterioration mechanisms of concrete, the recommended
materials to mitigate expansion using a model aggregate requirements for individual components, quality consider-
(reactive glass) that may or may not behave like real aggregate. ations for concrete mixtures, and construction practices. For
ASTM C 1260 is a rapid (14-day) mortar bar test used to further information on the durability properties of high-
characterize the potential reactivity of concrete aggregates to strength concrete, refer to ACI 363R.
ASR. It is a generally reliable, but not infallible, indicator
that an aggregate has a low potential for reactivity. Aggregates 4.3—Constructibility properties
exhibiting high expansion (>0.10%) under ASTM C 1260 Constructibility refers to the properties that are necessary
should not be rejected based on this test alone. These aggregates for the mixture to be produced, delivered, placed, consolidated,
should be further evaluated with a long-term, less severe test, finished, and cured to achieve the required mechanical and
such as ASTM C 1293. Tests performed under ASTM C durability properties. Typical constructibility-related properties
1293 can last as long as 1 year. Aggregates exhibiting low include consistency (slump or slump flow), workability,
expansion (<0.10%) under ASTM C 1260 are generally pumpability, finishability, setting time, and heat development.
considered innocuous because of the severity of the test. The slump test is defined in ASTM C 143, and is generally
However, it should be noted that, on some rare occasions, a relevant test for concrete having measured slump values
aggregates that showed low expansion using ASTM C 1260 below 7-1/2 in. (190 mm). For concretes that are more fluid,
were later found to be potentially reactive when evaluated in such as flowing or self-consolidating concretes, measuring
long-term tests. the diameter of horizontal spread, rather than the distance of
4.2.3 Sulfate attack—Sulfate is a component of several vertical subsidence, would be more applicable.
naturally occurring mineral salts. Sulfate attack is a chemical Compared with normal-strength concrete, high-strength
breakdown that occurs when sulfate ions from an external concrete generally has larger amounts of cementitious
source enter the concrete and attack components of the materials, a lower w/cm, smaller coarse aggregates, and more
cement paste, resulting in the formation of ettringite or intensive use of chemical admixtures. As a result, the rheology
gypsum. Sulfate attack can occur when concrete is in contact of high-strength concrete can be quite different from that of
with sulfate-bearing soils or water. When sulfate attack normal-strength concrete. Unless constructibility properties
occurs, the result is irreversible deterioration, usually in the are properly addressed in the mixture development process,
form of cracking or scaling. high-strength concrete will likely be stickier and more prone
Stark (2002) concluded that the greatest resistance to to early stiffening, making placement, consolidation, and
sulfate attack can be achieved through the use of low ratios finishing more difficult. The setting characteristics and heat
of w/cm. Thus, high-strength concrete is a highly suitable development of a high-strength concrete mixture may make
material for resistance to sulfate attack. it more vulnerable to cracking caused by changes in moisture
4.2.4 Delayed ettringite formation—Delayed ettringite and temperature. Therefore, with high-strength concrete,
formation (DEF) is viewed as a form of internal sulfate attack. greater attention needs to be paid to the selection of constituents,
A number of factors have been known to influence DEF, such particularly cementitious materials, and placement and
as the composition of cementitious materials, curing conditions, curing practices.
and exposure conditions. DEF is most significantly influenced Advancements in chemical admixture and supplementary
by improper heat curing of the concrete where the ettringite cementitious materials technology have contributed signifi-
formation that occurs under normal circumstances is cantly to the evolution of high-strength concrete and have
suppressed. The sulfate concentration in the pore liquid is high helped to overcome constructibility-related issues that have
for an unusually long period of time in the hardened concrete. been known to occur. For example, before the development of
Eventually, the sulfate reacts with the calcium and aluminate high-range water-reducing admixtures, high-strength concrete
phases in the cementitious paste, and expansion occurs. Due to was typically placed with slump values no greater than 4 in.
this expansion, cracks form around aggregates. The cracks may (100 mm). Today, through the use of newest-generation
remain empty, or later be partly or even completely filled with admixtures, it is possible to place high-strength concrete at
ettringite. It is generally agreed that DEF can be precluded in virtually any level of consistency. Properly designed self-
most cases if the maximum temperature within the member consolidating concrete allows for the concrete to be placed
does not exceed 160 °F (70 °C) during early hydration. without the need for mechanical consolidation and can ease
4.2.5 Corrosion—The adequacy of the protection that placement of concrete in members with congested reinforce-
concrete provides against the corrosion of embedded steel ment, which are fairly common in high-seismic applications.
reinforcement depends on several factors, including the
amount of concrete cover over the steel, the properties of the CHAPTER 5—RAW MATERIALS
concrete (particularly permeability), and the degree to which The use of consistent, high-quality raw materials is critical
the concrete is exposed to chlorides. High-strength concrete, to successful construction with high-strength concrete.
a material of inherently low permeability, has the potential to When combined, raw materials should be compatible.
provide excellent protection against corrosion if adequate Therefore, trial testing before construction is critical in
MATERIALS AND QUALITY CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE ITG-4.2R-11

Table 5.1—Raw materials and specifications fcr′ = 0.90fc′ + 2.33s (6-2)


Material Classification Specification
Portland cement Type I, II, III, or V ASTM C 150 When strength data are not available to establish a standard
Blended hydraulic cement Type IS, I (SM), or I (PM) ASTM C 595 deviation, the required average strength fcr′ used as the basis
Hydraulic cement Type GU, HE, HS, MS, or MH ASTM C 1157 for selection of concrete proportions should be
Fly ash Class C or F ASTM C 618
Ground-granulated
Grade 100 or 120 ASTM C 989 fcr′ = 1.10fc′ + 700 ( fcr′ and fc′ in psi) (6-3)
blast-furnace slag
Natural pozzolans Class N ASTM C 618
Silica fume fcr′ = 1.10fc′ + 4.8 ( fcr′ and fc′ in MPa)
(slurry or densified) — ASTM C 1240

Coarse aggregate No. 67, 7, 8, or 89 ASTM C 33 After sufficient test data are available, a re-evaluation of
Fine aggregate — ASTM C 33 mixture proportions in accordance with ACI 214R-02 is
Chemical admixtures Types A to G ASTM C 494 appropriate.
Air-entraining admixtures — ASTM C 260
The designated testing age is the age at which the acceptance
Water — ASTM C 1602
criteria should be met. The designated testing age for
normal-strength concrete is usually 28 days. High-strength
avoiding problems such as early stiffening, unanticipated concrete may gain considerable strength at later ages,
variations in setting time, or premature cracking. particularly if produced with certain supplementary
Raw material availability should be confirmed before the cementitious materials. In addition, high-strength concrete
start of construction, and materials should be available in is frequently used in columns or shearwalls of high-rise
sufficient quality and quantity throughout the duration of the buildings, where additional time for strength development
project. Spot shortages of quality raw materials will result in may be warranted. When construction sequencing allows
delays to the construction schedule. more time for the concrete to develop strength before loads
Substitution or alteration of any raw material used in the are imposed, it may be desirable to specify a designated
production of high-strength concrete should not be made testing age greater than 28 days, such as 56 days.
without verification testing to determine its compliance with Extra test cylinders should be held for testing at ages later
the project specifications. Material substitutions or alter- than the specified acceptance age. In cases where the specified
ations frequently lead to erratic performance. compressive strength fc′ is not attained at the specified
Table 5.1 lists raw materials generally considered appro- acceptance age, subsequent testing of “hold” cylinders has
priate for inclusion in a high-strength concrete evaluation sometimes justified the acceptance of the concrete in question.
program. The selection of raw materials depends on the
specific concrete properties desired. For example, if high 6.2—Water-cementitious material ratio
sulfate resistance was needed in addition to high strength, it When supplementary cementitious materials, such as
would be appropriate to consider the use of Type V (ASTM pozzolans or ground-granulated blast-furnace slags (GGBFS),
C 150) or Type HS (ASTM C 1157) cement in the mixture are used in concrete, a w/cm by mass is used in place of the
development and evaluation process. traditional w/c by mass for proportioning.
The w/cm selected should produce desirable mechanical
CHAPTER 6—MIXTURE PROPORTIONING and durability properties. In many cases, particularly with
6.1—Required strength normal-strength concrete, durability requirements may govern
Many factors influence the variability of measured concrete in the selection of a suitable w/cm; however, compressive
strengths, including variations in testing equipment and proce- strength will govern in most cases for high-strength concrete.
dures, raw materials, production facilities, delivery equipment, The water requirement of supplementary cementitious
contractors, inspection agencies, and environmental conditions. materials can vary significantly, and generally increases with
Section 5.6.3.3 of ACI 318-05 indicates that the measured increasing material fineness. As a result of its nearly spher-
strength of concrete having a specified compressive strength ical particle shape, the water requirement for concrete
greater than 5000 psi (34 MPa) is satisfactory if both of the proportioned with moderate amounts of fly ash is usually
following requirements are met: lower than that for concrete proportioned with portland
a. Every arithmetic average of any three consecutive cement only. This helps lower the w/cm of the mixture.
strength tests equals or exceeds fc′ ; and
b. No individual strength test (average of two cylinders) 6.3—Cementitious materials content
falls below fc′ by more than 0.10fc′ . Proportions for high-strength concrete are best determined
When strength data are available to establish a standard by making trial batches. In evaluating optimal cementitious
deviation s, the required average strength fcr′ used as the material contents, trial mixtures are usually proportioned for
basis for selection of concrete proportions should be the equal consistency (slump or slump spread). This can be
larger of the following achieved by either allowing the admixture dosage to vary
and keeping the water content fixed, or by allowing the water
fcr′ = fc′ + 1.34s (6-1) content to vary and keeping the admixture dosage fixed.
ITG-4.2R-12 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

Mortar cube tests (ASTM C 109) are useful for monitoring capillaries and pores of the paste and aggregate with the
the strength uniformity of cement or combinations of potential to damage the integrity of the concrete.
cementitious materials over time. The strength performance To reach critical saturation, concrete would have to be in
of a particular cement evaluated by testing mortar cubes can direct contact with moisture for long periods. Obviously,
be quite different from its performance in a concrete mixture. horizontal surfaces exposed to the exterior are significantly
Therefore, the strength characteristics of cements or combi- more susceptible to critical saturation than vertical surfaces.
nations of cementitious materials should be evaluated in Periodic precipitation, such as rain or snow, against a
concrete rather than in mortar. vertical surface does not, by itself, constitute conditions
A principal consideration in establishing the desired conducive to saturation. Consequently, it is not generally
cementitious material content is identifying combinations of necessary to specify air entrainment for high-strength
materials that will produce optimal strengths. Ideally, evalua- concrete columns.
tions of cementitious materials, aggregates, and chemical The primary disadvantage of air entrainment is its negative
admixtures from each potential source, in varying proportions, effect on strength. To achieve the same strength, air-
will indicate the optimal cementitious material content and entrained concrete generally requires a lower w/cm and,
optimal combination of raw materials. Particular attention therefore, a higher quantity of cementitious material than
should be given to evaluation of the type and brand of cement non-air-entrained concrete. The relationship between the
to be used and to the type and source of supplementary quantities of cementitious material needed to attain equal
cementitious material. strength varies depending on the strength of the concrete. For
Several factors may limit the maximum quantities of example, a 4000 psi (27 MPa) air-entrained concrete mixture
cementitious materials that are desirable in a high-strength may require only an additional 50 lb/yd3 (30 kg/m3) of
mixture. These are discussed as follows. cementitious material compared with a non-air-entrained
The strength of the concrete may decrease if the cementitious mixture to attain equal strength, whereas a 6000 psi (41 MPa)
material content exceeds the optimal value. The maximum air-entrained mixture might require an additional 150 lb/yd3
desirable quantity of cementitious material may vary (90 kg/m3) of cementitious material compared with its non-
considerably, depending on the efficiency of water-reducing air-entrained counterpart. The specific difference depends
or high-range water-reducing admixtures. on the characteristics of the raw materials. Above 6000 psi
An extremely low w/cm or a high cementitious material (41 MPa), however, the decrease in strength due to the inclusion
content can have a significant effect on workability. of entrained air becomes so great that it is usually necessary
Stickiness and loss of workability may increase as higher to include supplementary cementitious materials such as
amounts of cementitious material are incorporated into the silica fume or high-reactivity metakaolin.
mixture. Combinations of raw materials should be evaluated The decrease in strength for each incremental rise in air
for their effect on the ability to place, consolidate, and finish content becomes larger as the specified strength fc′ of the
the concrete mixture. concrete increases. For example, in a 4000 psi (27 MPa)
The maximum temperature desired in the concrete element concrete mixture, an air content increase from 5 to 7% may
may limit the quantity or type of cementitious materials in the reduce compressive strength by 200 to 400 psi (1.4 to 2.8 MPa),
mixture. Modification of the mixture using materials capable or 5 to 10%. In a 10,000 psi (69 MPa) mixture, the same air
of reducing the initial temperature or peak temperature, such content increase may reduce strength by 2000 to 3000 psi
as ice, chilled water, liquid nitrogen, slags, and pozzolans, (6.9 to 13.8 MPa), or 20 to 30%.
may be helpful. Because normal fluctuations in air content will have a
Mixtures rich in cementitious material frequently have significantly more dramatic effect on strength of high-
high water demands, particularly if some or all of the cemen- strength concrete compared with that of normal-strength
titious material is of an extremely fine size, such as silica concrete, higher variations in strength are to be expected. As
fume. Under some circumstances, it may be preferable to a result, the required average strength fcr′ of air-entrained
reduce the amount of cementitious materials in the mixture high-strength concrete may have to be larger than that for
and optimize the use of other raw materials by relying on a non-air-entrained high-strength concrete.
careful selection of aggregates and aggregate proportions. Because of the significantly detrimental effects it can have
on strength, air entrainment should only be used in high-
6.4—Air entrainment strength concrete when absolutely necessary.
There are advantages and disadvantages associated with
the use of air entrainment. The primary advantage of 6.5—Aggregates
entrained air is the freezing-and-thawing protection it Aggregates for use in high-strength concrete should be
provides in the event that the moisture content within the free from any type of coating that would impair paste-aggregate
capillaries or pores exceeds critical saturation (91.7% filled bonding. All aggregates should be washed at the aggregate
with water). As the water within concrete freezes, it expands production facility before shipment. Upon delivery to the
approximately 9% by volume. Without a system of tiny, concrete production facility, precautions should be taken to
uniformly distributed air bubbles throughout the mortar maintain cleanliness and prevent contamination. For coarse
fraction, this expansion can produce pressures within the and fine aggregates, the quantity of materials finer than No. 200
MATERIALS AND QUALITY CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE ITG-4.2R-13

(75 μm) sieve should not exceed 1.0 and 3.0%* by mass, Table 6.1—Volume off coarse aggregate per unit
respectively. volume of concrete*
6.5.1 Fine aggregates—Fine aggregate, or sand, has a Optimal coarse aggregate contents for
significant effect on mixture proportions. The fine aggregate nominal maximum sizes of aggregates to be
contains a much higher surface area for a given mass than the used with sand with fineness modulus†of
2.5 to 3.2
coarse aggregate. Because the surface area of aggregate
Nominal maximum size, 3/8 (9.5) 1/2 (12.5) 3/4 (19.0) 1 (25.0)
particles should be coated with a cementitious paste, the in. (mm)
proportion of fine-to-coarse aggregate can have a direct effect Volume of dry-rodded coarse
on paste requirements. Furthermore, the shape of fine aggre- aggregate‡ per unit volume of 0.65 0.68 0.72 0.75
concrete
gate particles may be spherical, subangular, or very angular.
*Table adapted from Table 4.3.3 of ACI 211.4R-93.
Particle shape can alter paste requirements even though the †
Refer to ASTM C 136 for calculation of fineness modulus.
net volume of the fine aggregate remains the same. ‡
Volumes are based on aggregates in dry-rodded condition as described in ASTM C 29.
The sand equivalent value for fine aggregates (ASTM D
2419) for use in high-strength concrete should not be less In general, the least amount of fine aggregate consistent
than 85. The fineness modulus of fine aggregate for use in with the necessary workability produces the best strength for
high-strength concrete should be between 2.5 and 3.2. a given paste. Mixtures with objectionably high coarse
The gradation of the fine aggregate plays an important role aggregate contents may exhibit poor pumpability or may be
in the properties of the plastic and the hardened concrete. For significantly more prone to segregation during placement
example, if the gradation is such that an overabundance of and consolidation.
particles is retained on the No. 50 and 100 (300 and 150 μm)
sieve sizes, the workability will be improved, but more paste 6.6—Supplementary cementitious materials
will be needed because of the increased surface area of the Supplementary cementitious materials include fly ash,
fine aggregates. It is sometimes possible to blend fine GGBFS, silica fume, and natural pozzolans such as calcined
aggregates from different sources to improve their gradation clays, shales, and high-reactivity metakaolin. Most supplemen-
and their capacity to produce high-strength concrete. High- tary cementitious materials used in concrete are by-products of
strength concrete has been produced using blended sands major industrial processes. Many of these materials were
consisting of manufactured and natural fine aggregates. formerly referred to as “mineral admixtures,” but today they
Low fine aggregate contents in combination with high are more commonly referred to as “supplementary cementing
coarse aggregate contents have resulted in a reduction in paste materials” or “supplementary cementitious materials.”
requirements for high-strength concrete, and are generally Supplementary cementitious materials can be predominantly
more economical. Such proportions have also made it possible hydraulic, pozzolanic, or possess both hydraulic and
to produce higher strengths for a given amount of cementitious pozzolanic properties. Hydraulic materials react directly
material. If the proportion of fine aggregate is too low, with water to form cementing compounds, whereas
however, there may be serious problems with workability. pozzolanic materials react chemically with calcium hydroxide
6.5.2 Coarse aggregates—In proportioning normal- (a by-product of the hydration of cement) in the presence of
strength concrete mixtures, the optimal quantity and size of water to form cementing compounds. For example, a low-
coarse aggregate are functions of the maximum size and fine- calcium (Class F) fly ash is predominantly pozzolanic,
ness modulus of the fine aggregate. High-strength concrete whereas a high-calcium (Class C) fly ash can be both
mixtures have a high cementitious material content, and thus hydraulic and pozzolanic.
are not so dependent on the fine aggregate to supply fines for Supplementary cementitious materials are used for
lubrication of the fresh concrete and for particle packing. numerous reasons, such as increased strength, improved
In general, the smallest-size coarse aggregate produces the durability, decreased shrinkage, decreased heat of hydration,
highest-strength concrete for a given w/cm. The selection of and improved cost efficiency. Supplementary cementitious
coarse aggregate size may be influenced by requirements materials, when understood and used correctly, can signifi-
other than strength. The use of a coarse aggregate with a cantly enhance the properties of high-strength concrete.
larger nominal maximum size is often needed to increase the Generally, fly ash and GGBFS are the supplementary
modulus of elasticity or to decrease the creep, shrinkage, or cementitious materials chosen first for a high-strength
heat of hydration of the concrete. mixture. These materials, when used correctly and in the
The quantities of coarse aggregate in Table 6.1 are recom- presence of compatible materials, have been used to
mended for initial proportioning. The values given are economically produce concrete with specified compressive
expressed as a fraction of the dry-rodded unit weight and strengths as high as 12,000 psi (84 MPa). For even higher
based on the nominal maximum coarse-aggregate size, and strengths, ternary mixtures (having three cementitious
used with fine aggregates having a fineness modulus materials) containing silica fume or high-reactivity metakaolin
between 2.5 and 3.2. as a third cementitious material are usually used.
6.6.1 Fly ash—Fly ash is the finely divided residue
produced in coal-fired electric power plants as an industrial
*
In the case of manufactured sand, if the material finer than No. 200 (75 µm) sieve by-product of the combustion of powdered coal. Fly ash
consists of dust of fracture, essentially free of clay or shale, this limit may be
increased to 5.0% maximum. consists of glassy, spherically shaped particles with an
ITG-4.2R-14 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

average particle size usually slightly smaller than that typical the addition of high-range water-reducing admixtures a
of general-use portland cement. Fly ash often causes a slight requirement when silica fume is used. Unless the water
reduction in the water demand of the mixture when used in demand is offset through the use of a high-range water-
moderate amounts. reducing admixture, the increase in water necessary to
The performance of fly ash in concrete is strongly influenced produce needed workability would negate the properties
by its chemical composition. In 3000 to 5000 psi (21 to 34 MPa) desired through the use of silica fume. Proprietary products
concrete, fly ash is commonly used at 15 to 25% (by mass) containing silica fume may also include carefully balanced
of cementitious materials, and at levels exceeding 40% for chemical admixtures.
special applications such as mass concreting or for mitigating Silica fume contents ranging from 5 to 10% (by mass) of
ASRs. Class C fly ash, which has both hydraulic and cementitious materials are typically used in high-strength
pozzolanic characteristics, has been found to be very suitable concrete mixtures. When used correctly, silica fume is an
for high-strength concrete. Class C fly ash, however, will extremely effective material for producing very high
usually not be as effective as Class F fly ash in resisting ASR strengths and significant decreases in permeability. As a
or sulfate attack. High-strength concrete mixtures up to result of its chemical and physical composition, silica fume
12,000 psi (84 MPa) have been successfully produced using is highly effective for achieving high strength at both early
fly ash in the amount of 30 to 40% of cementitious materials and later ages. Specifications for silica fume are given in
(by mass) without the use of silica fume or high-reactivity ASTM C 1240.
metakaolin. Therefore, all relevant performance characteristics 6.6.4 High-reactivity metakaolin—High-reactivity
of the concrete should be taken into consideration when metakaolin (HRM) is a natural pozzolan that is refined from
developing a high-strength mixture. Specification requirements high-purity kaolin, or china clay. Although it is quite
for fly ash are covered under ASTM C 618. different chemically and physically from silica fume, HRM
6.6.2 Ground-granulated blast-furnace slag—Slag is a is a near-pure pozzolanic material that is capable of
by-product of iron and steel manufacturing. GGBFS is the enhancing the strength and permeability of concrete to a
highly angular, glassy granular material formed when degree similar to that achievable with silica fume. HRM
molten blast-furnace slag is rapidly chilled (quenched) by contents ranging from 5 to 15% (by mass) of cementitious
immersion in water, and then ground, in general, finer than material are typically used to achieve high compressive
portland cement. GGBFS is classified as a hydraulic material, strength or low permeability. Although finer than portland
and it generally has a water demand similar to or slightly cement, the average particle size of HRM is 10 to 20 times
lower than that of portland cement. larger than that of silica fume. For this reason, the water
GGBFS is typically used at 30 to 50% (by mass) of cemen- demand associated with HRM is not as high as that of silica
titious material, and at levels exceeding 50% for special fume. High-range water-reducing admixtures, however, are
applications, such as mass concreting. The early-age still necessary when incorporating HRM into a concrete
strength (at less than 7 days) of concrete mixtures containing mixture. HRM is classified under ASTM C 618, Class N.
GGBFS is usually lower than that of mixtures containing 6.6.5 Blended hydraulic cements—Supplementary cementi-
portland cement. Usually, by 21 days of age, the strength of tious materials can be introduced into a concrete mixture
mixtures containing GGBFS is equal to or greater than that either as separate constituents at the concrete production
of portland cement mixtures. For ASR control, replacement facility or through intergrinding or blending at a cement
levels of 35 to 40% are generally recommended. For sulfate manufacturing facility. Blended hydraulic cements have
resistance, replacement levels of 35% or greater are usually been produced using combinations of pozzolans and slag
recommended. More detailed information on this topic is interground or interblended with portland cement or portland-
presented in ACI 233R. cement clinker. Depending on the manufacturing process, the
Three grades of GGBFS are available based on the slag properties imparted through the use of blended hydraulic
activity index: Grades 80, 100, and 120. The slag activity cements can be different than if the cementitious materials were
index gives the relative strength of a standard mortar when introduced as separate constituents. Specifications for blended
50% of the cement is replaced by GGBFS; Grade 120 has a hydraulic cements are given in ASTM C 595 and C 1157.
slag activity index of 120%, meaning the compressive
strength of a mortar with 50% of the cement replaced by slag 6.7—Chemical admixtures
by weight is approximately 20% stronger than a mortar made Chemical admixtures are used to control various concrete
with no cement replaced by slag at 28 days. Specification properties, including workability, setting time, water
requirements and test methods for GGBFS are described in demand, rate of strength gain, shrinkage, and the effects of
ASTM C 989. extreme temperatures. Specifications for chemical admixtures
6.6.3 Silica fume—Silica fume is the ultra-fine noncrystalline are covered in ASTM C 494.
silica produced in electric arc furnaces as a by-product of the 6.7.1 Conventional water-reducing admixtures—The
production of silicon metals and ferrosilicon alloys. It is amount of conventional water-reducing admixture used in
considered a purely pozzolanic material. A particle of silica high-strength concrete varies depending on the particular
fume is, on average, about 1/100 the diameter of a cement admixture and application. In addition to controlling water
grain. As a result of its extreme fineness, silica fume dramati- demand, the ability of these admixtures to control the rate of
cally increases the water demand of the mixture. This has made hydration, which is related to strength, is of critical importance
MATERIALS AND QUALITY CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE ITG-4.2R-15

in the successful production of high-strength concrete. of constituent materials have varied extensively, making
Conventional water-reducing admixtures generally reduce experimentation with the candidate materials necessary.
water demand by approximately 5 to 10% and are classified High-range water-reducing admixtures generally perform
in ASTM C 494 as Types A, D, or E. more efficiently in high-strength concrete when used in
Generally, set-neutral water-reducing admixtures or combination with conventional water-reducing admixtures
accelerating water-reducing admixtures will not be as or retarding water-reducing admixtures. Such combinations
beneficial to long-term strength development as admixtures increase slump retention, and hydration control becomes
that retard setting. As the specified design strength increases, achievable through their use.
the ability of set-retarding admixtures to effectively control
hydration, which is related to strength, becomes increasingly 6.9—Proportioning for workability
important. ASTM C 143 describes a standard test method for
6.7.2 High-range water-reducing admixtures—Water determining the slump of hydraulic-cement concrete. This
reductions in the range of 12 to 30% can be realized through method has been used to quantify the consistency of plastic,
the use of high-range water-reducing admixtures in concrete. cohesive concrete mixtures. The test method is generally not
High-range water-reducing admixtures are frequently applicable to stiff mixtures having measured slump values
referred to as superplasticizers, and are classified in ASTM below 1/2 in. (13 mm) or flowing concrete mixtures having
C 494 as Types F and G. measured slump values above 7-1/2 in. (190 mm).
Measurement of the diameter of the horizontal spread,
Self-consolidating high-strength concrete mixtures are
rather than the distance of vertical subsidence, is a more relevant
frequently produced using high-range water-reducing
test for determining the consistency and stability of flowing
admixtures in conjunction with viscosity-modifying
or self-consolidating concrete than the slump test.
admixtures such as cellulose ether, welan, or diutan gum.
High-strength concrete, often designed using aggregate
Generally, slump retention, batch-to-batch slump uniformity, with a 1/2 in. (13 mm) or smaller nominal maximum size and
and admixture efficiency can be increased when concrete is a high cementitious material content, is inherently placeable
initially proportioned with a sufficient quantity of water to provided that proper attention is given to optimizing the ratio
produce measurable slump without the high-range water- of fine-to-coarse aggregate. Local material characteristics
reducing admixture. For example, a mixture proportioned can have a marked effect on proportions. Cementitious
with enough water to produce a 1 to 2 in. (25 to 50 mm) material fineness and particle-size distribution can influence
slump (without the chemical admixture) would be expected the character of the mixture. Admixtures have been found to
to exhibit longer slump retention with the addition of a high- significantly improve the placeability of high-strength
range water-reducing admixture than a mixture proportioned concrete mixtures.
with less water. Mixtures that were proportioned properly but appear to
Unlike early melamine or naphthalene-based high-range change in character and become less workable during
water-reducing admixtures that performed more consistently production should be considered suspect and quickly
after prewetting the cement, newer-generation high-range checked for proportions; possible false setting of cement;
water-reducing admixtures, based on polycarboxylate chem- undesirable entrained or entrapped air content; cementitious
istry, can frequently be introduced without prewetting the materials compatibility, admixture compatibility problems,
cement. Therefore, these newer generation admixtures can or both; or other changes.
be introduced during the beginning phases of batching after
the water content has been established, rather than at the end. 6.10—Trial batches
In high-strength concrete mixtures, high-range water- Where historical data are not available, laboratory trial
reducing admixtures are primarily used to lower the w/cm while batches may be necessary to develop an appropriate high-
maintaining workability. Due to the relatively large quantity of strength concrete mixture. Because each locality and project
liquid that is frequently added in the form of high-range water- is unique, a number of laboratory and field evaluations are
reducing admixtures, the water content of these admixtures frequently necessary to develop mixtures having suitable
should be included in the calculation of the w/cm. materials and proportions. In addition to laboratory trial
batches, field-sized trial batches should be made and placed
6.8—Combinations of supplementary cementitious under production conditions. All material samples should be
materials and chemical admixtures obtained from bulk production and should be representative
Nearly all high-strength concrete today incorporates of the materials that will be used on the project.
combinations of supplementary cementitious materials, 6.10.1 Laboratory trials—Materials and proportions
chemical admixtures, or both. Changes in the type, quantities, should be initially evaluated in the laboratory to determine
and combinations of these materials can affect both the their relative influence on the concrete properties. Sufficient
plastic and the hardened properties of high-strength lead time should be allowed to perform laboratory trials well
concrete. Therefore, special attention should be given to before the start of construction. Laboratory trial mixtures
their effects. Careful adjustments to mixture proportions should be prepared in accordance with ASTM C 192.
have been necessary when there have been changes in After promising mixtures have been established, further
admixture type, quantities, or combinations. Characteristics laboratory trial batches may be required to quantify the
ITG-4.2R-16 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

detailed characteristics of those mixtures. Strength characteris- true for high-strength concrete because high compressive
tics at various test ages may be investigated. Water demand, rate strength can only be achieved through tight control of
of slump loss, amount of bleeding, segregation, and setting time manufacturing, transportation, and placing procedures.
may also be evaluated. The density (unit weight) of the mixture Preconstruction meetings should include representatives
should be established. Density monitoring during the course of of all parties involved in the specification and production of
construction is an extremely valuable quality control tool. the concrete: the concrete supplier, the contractor, the testing
6.10.2 Field trials—Using equipment, personnel, materials, agency, the licensed design professional, and the owner. In
and mixture proportions proposed for use on the project, it some cases, the building official may also participate in
should be verified that the concrete will meet the specification preconstruction meetings. The topics discussed at precon-
criteria through field verification tests using batch sizes struction meetings will vary depending on such factors as the
representative of those proposed for use on the project. For scope of the project and local experience with design,
each batch evaluated, a minimum of three compressive production, and placement of high-strength concrete.
strength cylinders for each test age should be made. Suitable Topics that are commonly discussed at preconstruction
corrections should be made to the mixture, if needed. Mixture meetings are described in Sections 8.1 through 8.3. It may
proportion modifications should be submitted to the specifying not be necessary to cover each of these topics, depending on
authority before use on the project. the specific needs of the project, the requirements of the local
building official, and the experience of the concrete production
CHAPTER 7—MIXTURE SUBMITTAL and placement team. A sample preconstruction meeting
REQUIREMENTS agenda is included in the Appendix.
Concrete mixture proportions should be submitted for
approval at least 60 days before production. Each mixture 8.1—Batching
proportion submittal should include all of the following • Review of approved mixture designs. The list of
information: approved mixture proportions should be finalized, and
• Project identification; a unique identification number for each mixture should
• Name and address of concrete supplier and concrete be assigned;
production facility; • Allowable variations of approved mixture proportions
• Mixture proportion designation; during batching. This is a critical factor in the
• Specified minimum and maximum (if required) performance of the high-strength concrete mixtures.
compressive strength; Allowable variations should be based on the results of
• Specified properties of the concrete, other than specified trial batches;
compressive strength; • Allowable substitution of mixtures with higher
• Based on field strength results or results of trial strengths than specified. The engineer should establish if
batches, documentation that the proposed concrete mixtures with strengths higher than specified could be
proportions will produce concrete meeting the specified detrimental to the seismic or static load performance of
properties; and the building, and, if necessary, establish overstrength
• Material proportions, including the following for each limits;
mixture: • Requirements for inspection of the batch plant.
– Listing of all raw material types and quantities; Requirements should be established both for preliminary
– The saturated surface-dry mass of the coarse and inspection of the plant and ongoing inspections during
fine aggregates; batching of high-strength concrete mixtures. Prelimi-
– Name and location of all raw material sources, nary inspection may include verification that quality-
including aggregates, cementitious materials, control procedures are in place and that monitoring
admixtures, and water; instruments are functioning and calibrated. Ongoing
– Certificates of compliance for cement, supplementary inspection requirements may include periodic verification
cementitious materials, aggregates and admixtures; of coarse and fine aggregate moisture content, observation
and of truck rinsing procedures, and monitoring the temper-
– Method statement for site admixture adjustments, if ature of constituent materials and the fresh mixture;
proposed. • Minimum batch size. High-strength concrete mixtures
The selection and documentation of mixture proportions are sometimes “sticky” in consistency. Consequently,
to attain the specified compressive strength should be paste tends to adhere to mixing equipment, the truck
submitted pursuant to procedures outlined in Fig. R5.3 of drum, and pumping equipment. This loss of paste
ACI 318-05. may significantly affect the strength of small batches
of high-strength concrete. A minimum batch size
CHAPTER 8—PRECONSTRUCTION MEETINGS should be established, typically on the order of 4 yd3
Preconstruction meetings are key to the successful use of (3 m3). Smaller batches may be permitted if test
high-strength concrete. Even the most carefully designed batches that have been mixed, transported, and
and tested concrete mixture can perform poorly if it is not pumped under realistic conditions indicate acceptable
batched, transported, and placed correctly. This is particularly mixture performance;
MATERIALS AND QUALITY CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE ITG-4.2R-17

• Sources, storing, and handling of constituent there are many possible variables in the pumping
materials. Sources of constituent materials should be process. Consideration may be given to a pumping
approved by the licensed design professional before the specification that contains both prescriptive and
start of test batching. The same sources of materials performance-based requirements;
should be used for test batches and production batches. • Maximum and minimum slump during placement.
Any substitution of materials sources should be These limits should be established based on the trial
preapproved by the licensed design professional. batch program. Procedures should also be defined for
Because careful control of water content is critical to the dealing with batches that exhibit slump outside the
final strength of high-strength concrete, procedures allowable limits;
should be established for proper storage of materials and • Slump to be measured at the end of the placement
monitoring of moisture contents just before batching; hose. When high-strength concrete is placed by means
• Review of trial batch results. The licensed design of pumping, the only meaningful place to measure
professional should review the trial batch test results for slump is at the end of the placement hose. This require-
conformance with the specifications and, if acceptable, ment should be discussed with the contractor and
approve the concrete mixture proportions for production. testing agency at the preconstruction meeting;
Any deficiencies in the trial batch test results should be • Restrictions on vibrating concrete in the forms.
discussed with the high-strength concrete supplier, and Excessive mechanical vibration of high-strength concrete
measures for corrective action established. Additional may lead to unacceptable water migration within the
test batches may be required by the licensed design mixture, segregation of the mixture, or both. Restrictions
professional to verify the efficacy of the corrective on vibration of fresh concrete should be defined in terms
actions; and of the types, sizes, and power of acceptable vibration
• Special requirements for batching during cold or equipment, and limits on the length of time concrete may
hot weather. Trial batches should include simulation of be vibrated in different types of structural members (such
cold or hot weather conditions, as appropriate. Any as walls, columns, beams, and slabs), and the visible
special requirements related to cold or hot weather condition of concrete during placement (such as obser-
conditions should be clearly indicated. These vations of segregation or excessive bleed water);
requirements may include minimum and maximum • Restriction on additions to the mixture at the job
allowable temperatures of the high-strength concrete site. As with restrictions on additions to the mixture
during mixing, transportation, placing, and curing. during transport, restrictions on additions to the
mixture at the job site should be clearly defined. For
8.2—Transportation example, guidelines for redosing the concrete with a
• Maximum transport time and distance. Limits on water-reducing admixture if slump loss has occurred
transport time and distance should be defined based on should be clearly defined. The guidelines should
the trial batch results. Procedures for verifying transport include: whether additional water-reducing admixture
time and distance should be established; is allowed, the type of water-reducing admixture to be
• Restrictions on additions to the mixture during used, the maximum amount allowed, and who is
transport. Additions include, but are not limited to, allowed to add the water-reducing admixture. Procedures
water, water-reducing admixtures, or retarders. These should be put in place for ensuring that each person
restrictions should be clearly defined. In addition, proce- handling, placing, or finishing high-strength concrete at
dures should be put in place to ensure that each truck the site is informed of these restrictions and the
driver is informed of these restrictions and the impor- importance of complying with them;
tance of complying with them; • Required number of test cylinders, and procedures
• Protocols for handling of the batch ticket. Incomplete for casting, curing, and testing cylinders. Based on
or missing information on batch tickets can hamper the trial batch program, the number of test cylinders
later investigations of the in-place performance of high- required for each batch should be defined. In addition,
strength concrete mixtures. The personnel who are procedures should be defined for taking cylinder
responsible for completing each section of the batch samples from the mixture, casting cylinders, handling
ticket should be identified, and those personnel should and curing of cylinders, and testing of cylinders;
be informed of their responsibility; and • Requirements for air content testing. If the trial
• Requirements for transport of trial batches to test batch program indicates that entrained air content is
transport procedures. These procedures should an important parameter for the performance of the
mimic, as much as possible, actual transport procedures. high-strength concrete mixture, then procedures
Variation of parameters, such as transport time and should be established for air-content testing. These
distance, should be investigated in the trial batch program. procedures should include the number and frequency
of required tests, test procedures, and the acceptable
8.3—Placement upper and lower bounds for air content;
• Pumping procedures. Specification of high-strength • Requirements for monitoring of concrete temperature.
concrete pumping procedures can be complex because High-strength concrete mixtures may exhibit rapid heat
ITG-4.2R-18 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

gain due to their relatively high cementitious material All materials should be measured in accordance with the
content. If the trial batch program indicates that excessive tolerances of ASTM C 94.
heat gain may be a problem, a program should be estab- High-strength concrete should be mixed a minimum of
lished for monitoring the in-place temperature of the 100 revolutions, or for a sufficient period necessary to comply
high-strength concrete mixture as it hardens and cures. with the concrete uniformity requirements (Annex A1) of
ASTM C 94, whichever is greater.
CHAPTER 9—ORDERING Rinsing of the truck collection hopper and internal drum
Though smaller batch sizes may be permissible, batch components after batching should not be permitted except
sizes less than 4.0 yd3 (3.0 m3) should be avoided. When under the supervision of trained quality control or plant
ordering high-strength concrete, the quantity of concrete supervisory personnel. The amount of water used for rinsing
ordered should be divided into equal load sizes. truck collection hoppers and internal drum components
Orders for high-strength concrete should be placed at least should be kept to a minimum; the amount should not exceed
48 hours in advance to allow ample time to inventory raw 3 gal. (11 L) of water per batch.
materials and schedule testing and inspection services. The following minimum information should be included
on delivery (batch) tickets:
CHAPTER 10—RAW MATERIALS HANDLING • Name of concrete producer;
The handling and storage of raw materials for high-strength • Name or number of concrete production facility;
concrete are not significantly different than the procedures • Serial number of delivery ticket;
used for normal-strength concrete. Inventorying and storage • Date;
procedures at the concrete production facility should guard • Truck number;
against material contamination. Aggregate moisture content • Name of purchaser;
and temperatures should be consistent to achieve batch-to- • Specific designation of project (name and location);
batch consistency. During hot weather periods, coarse • Mixture identification (mixture number or description);
aggregates should be preconditioned to compensate for the • Amount of concrete in cubic yards (or cubic meters);
effects of moisture evaporation and to provide temperature and
control. During cold weather periods, it should be ensured that • Time batched or time of the first mixing of cement and
aggregates are free of ice and frozen lumps. aggregates.
Delivery tickets should be filled out completely, and
CHAPTER 11—PRODUCTION AND DELIVERY should not be surrendered by drivers until completion of
Procedures for producing high-strength concrete are not discharge. Mixer drivers should record any pertinent
different in principle from those used for normal-strength information regarding the load of concrete they are delivering,
concrete; therefore, the procedures covered in ACI 304R are such as delivery time or discrepancies in observed sampling
applicable. Because high-strength concrete normally involves procedures.
the use of relatively large amounts of cementitious materials, Ready mixed concrete should be delivered in accordance
however, special precautions are necessary, such as maintaining with ASTM C 94.
the water content within the mixture proportion guidelines and The addition of water should be permitted only if this was
ensuring that the batch is uniformly mixed. agreed to at the preconstruction meeting and only if the
maximum w/cm is not exceeded. Many case histories of low
The concrete production facility should be equipped with
concrete strength on projects have been traced to excessive
an automated measuring device having the capability to
site water addition. Therefore, careful consideration should
measure the moisture content of fine aggregate. The batching
be given before allowing site water to be added to high-
system should also have the capability to automatically adjust
strength concrete.
the amount of batch water required, based on the fine
aggregate moisture content.
CHAPTER 12—CONCRETE
Each day, before the start of production, the moisture content TEMPERATURE CONTROL
of the fine and coarse aggregates should be determined in In hot weather concrete placement, the maximum recom-
accordance with ASTM C 566. Should there be reason to mended ambient placement temperature is 95 °F (35 °C).
believe that the moisture content of the aggregates has Higher placement temperatures should only be considered if
changed significantly, new moisture content determinations it can be demonstrated that placing the concrete at higher
should be made immediately. Determination of moisture temperatures will not be detrimental to any specified
contents should be made far enough in advance so the results concrete property.
are available before the scheduled batching time. A record of In hot weather concrete placement, the minimum recom-
aggregate moisture content testing should be available at the mended mixing and placement temperatures should be in
concrete production facility at all times. accordance with Table 12.1.
Trucks containing the remnants of a different mixture When temperature control measures are taken, it should be
proportion should be completely washed out and emptied of possible to maintain batch-to-batch temperature differences on
all wash water prior to receiving a batch of high-strength the same placement to a minimum. Batch-to-batch temperature
concrete. differences greater than 5 °F (3 °C) should be avoided.
MATERIALS AND QUALITY CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE ITG-4.2R-19

Table 12.1—Limits on concrete temperatures and rates of temperature decrease*


Minimum section dimension
<12 in. 12 to 36 in. 36 to 72 in. >72 in.
(<300 mm) (300 to 900 mm) (900 to 1800 mm) (>1800 mm)
Air temperature above 30° F (–1 °C) 60 °F (16 °C) 55 °F (13 °C) 50 °F (10 °C) 45 °F (7 °C)
Minimum concrete temperature as mixed, Air temperature 0 to 30 °F (–18 to –1 °C) 65 °F (18 °C) 60 °F (16 °C) 55 °F (13 °C) 50 °F (10 °C)
for indicated air temperature
Air temperature below 0 °F (–18 °C) 70 °F (21 °C) 65 °F (18 °C) 60 °F (16 °C) 55 °F (13 °C)
Minimum concrete temperature as placed and maintained 55 °F (13 °C) 50 °F (10 °C) 45 °F (7 °C) 40 °F (4 °C)
Maximum concrete temperature as placed 75 °F (24 °C) 70 °F (21 °C) 65 °F (18 °C) 60 °F (16 °C)
Maximum allowable temperature drop in concrete in first 24 hours after removal of 50 °F (28 °C) 40 °F (22 °C) 30 °F (17 °C) 20 °F (11 °C)
formwork and/or insulation
*
Adapted from ACI 306R, Table 3.1.

During hot weather periods, ice, chilled water, or liquid consolidated using a minimum amount of vibration. In the
nitrogen may be used to lower the temperature of the fresh event the concrete becomes overdosed with high-range
concrete. If ice is used, it should be measured on a mass- water-reducing admixture, segregation is likely to occur and
basis and included as part of the mixing water. Materials to the concrete should not be used.
control temperature should be available in sufficient quantities In many cases, high-strength concrete will be suitable for
to provide consistent batch-to-batch temperatures. placement by pumping. High-strength concrete is likely to
During cold weather periods, heated mixing water, if used, have a relatively high cementitious material content and
should be available in sufficient quantities to provide consistent small maximum size aggregate, both factors that normally
batch-to-batch temperatures. facilitate concrete pumping. Chapter 9 of ACI 304R provides
guidance for the use of pumps for transporting high-strength
CHAPTER 13—PLACEMENT, CONSOLIDATION, concrete. In the field, the pump should be located as near to
AND FINISHING the placing areas as is practicable. Pump lines should be laid
Upon arrival of the delivery truck at the job site, measures out with a minimum of bends, firmly supported, using alternate
should be taken to ensure that the concrete will be placed and lines and flexible pipe or hose to permit placing over a large
consolidated without delay. Equipment for placing the area directly into the forms without rehandling. Direct
concrete should have adequate capacity to perform required communication is essential between the pump operator and
functions efficiently. Ample equipment and manpower the concrete placing crew. Continuous pumping is desirable
should be provided to consolidate the concrete quickly after because if the pump is stopped, movement of the concrete in
placement, particularly in highly congested, difficult areas. the line may be difficult or impossible to start again.
In the event of breakdowns, standby equipment should be The finishing characteristics of high-strength concrete is
available. For example, one standby vibrator should be usually not a significant issue because most high-strength
available for each three vibrators in use. concrete is used in vertically formed applications, such as
Concrete should be deposited at or near its final position in columns and walls, rather than horizontally finished appli-
the structure. Buggies, chutes, buckets, hoppers, or other cations, such as slabs. In general, increases in the cementitious
means may be used to move the concrete as required. In material content or cementitious material fineness or
applications where concretes having two different strengths decreases in the w/cm will reduce bleeding, and therefore tend
are being used simultaneously, such as high-rise buildings, to make finishing more challenging, particularly if a steel
the high-strength concrete should be placed at the prescribed trowel finish is specified. Inclusion of an evaporation retardant
locations before the normal-strength concrete. to reduce the rate of surface drying or replenishment of surface
Water should not be used to increase the workability of moisture lost through evaporation by misting or fogging can
high-strength concrete. In the event increased workability is improve the finishability of high-strength concrete.
needed, a high-range water-reducing admixture of the same
brand and type as used at the concrete production facility CHAPTER 14—CURING
should be used. Site-added high-range water-reducing Curing methods, materials, and monitoring procedures are
admixtures should be added to the batch by means of a pipe or described in detail in ACI 308R. Proper curing is critically
wand that can introduce the product to the center of the drum important, particularly as concrete undergoes its transition
using an automated metering device. Only trained personnel from a plastic to a hardened material.
should be allowed to add high-range water-reducing admix- Curing is the process by which hydraulic-cement concrete
tures. A method statement by the contractor for the site matures and develops hardened properties over time as a
addition of high-range water-reducing admixtures should be result of the continued hydration of the cementitious material
submitted, and a record of job-site additions should be in the presence of sufficient moisture and appropriate
maintained and available at the project site at all times. temperature. Curing is essential in producing quality
When consolidating high-strength concrete, the procedures concrete and achieving the desired mechanical or durability
detailed in ACI 309R should be followed. The consistency of properties of the concrete. The intended properties of high-
the concrete should be such that it can be effectively strength concrete will be fully developed only if the concrete
ITG-4.2R-20 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

is properly cured for an adequate period before being placed 15.1.3 Chemical admixtures—One minimum 1 pint (0.5 L)
in service. The required curing period depends largely on the sample of each chemical admixture should be obtained.
intended properties to be developed. Curing has a significant
influence on the properties of hardened concrete, including 15.2—Sample identification
strength, permeability, abrasion resistance, and durability. 15.2.1 Cement and supplementary cementitious materials—
The objective of curing is to maintain favorable moisture Sample identification should include:
and temperature conditions to allow for the hydration of • Sample location;
cementitious material. Inadequate curing can have signifi- • Date and time sampled;
cantly detrimental effects on the mechanical and durability • Origin;
properties of concrete in service. High-strength concrete • Material source and type;
usually has a higher cementitious material content than • Truck number; and
normal-strength concrete, and generates more heat during • Bill of lading number.
the hydration of the cement. Therefore, particular attention 15.2.2 Aggregates—Sample identification should include:
should be given to curing high-strength concrete to control • Sample location;
the development of internal temperature differentials that, if • Date and time sampled; and
uncontrolled, could lead to cracking. • Material source and type.
Curing practices should begin upon placement of 15.2.3 Chemical admixtures—Sample identification
concrete. When the bleeding rate of concrete is exceeded by should include:
the evaporation rate, interim curing measures, such as fog
• Product name;
sprays or evaporation retardants, should be used to prevent
• Sample location; and
plastic shrinkage cracking.
• Date and time sampled.
In mass concrete, the difference between the warmest and
the coolest portion of the member should not exceed 35 °F
15.3—Testing
(20 °C) unless it can be demonstrated through thermal The following minimum tests should be performed
modeling that a higher differential would not be detrimental routinely.
to the structure.
15.3.1 Cement—
Due to the potential for DEF, the highest internal temper-
• ASTM C 204 (fineness);
ature developed within a member should not exceed 160 °F
• ASTM C 430 (material finer than No. 325 [45 μm]
(70 °C).
sieve); and
If water curing is used, it should be done on a continuous
• ASTM C 109 (strength).
basis throughout the duration of curing. Intermittent water
15.3.2 Supplementary cementitious materials—
curing that allows concrete to undergo cycles of wetting and
drying can be more detrimental than no curing at all. Tepid • ASTM C 204 (fineness);
water should be used to avoid administering thermal shock • ASTM C 430 (material finer than No. 325 [45 μm] sieve);
to the concrete. • ASTM C 311 (strength activity of fly ash, natural
pozzolans, and silica fume); and
CHAPTER 15—RAW MATERIAL • ASTM C 109 (strength activity of GGBFS).
SAMPLING AND TESTING 15.3.3 Aggregates—
Raw materials for high-strength concrete should be • ASTM C 136 (grading); and
routinely sampled and tested according to the methods listed • ASTM C 117 (material finer than No. 200 [75 μm]
in the following sections. Samples should be obtained twice sieve, by washing).
per month and be retained for a minimum of 60 days. The 15.3.4 Chemical admixtures—
day of sampling should be randomly selected. • Specific gravity, pH, and total solids.

15.1—Sampling method CHAPTER 16—CONCRETE SAMPLING


15.1.1 Cementitious material—One minimum 10 lb (4.5 kg) AND TESTING
sample from each source of cement and supplementary Concrete mixture sampling at the project site should be
cementitious material used should be obtained. The preferred performed in strict accordance with ASTM C 172. Test
sampling location is either directly from the truck or during specimens should be made and cured in strict accordance
discharge from the truck. Samples should be obtained before with ASTM C 31 and tested in accordance with the applicable
the cement or supplementary cementitious materials are test methods indicated as follows.
deposited into the silo or storage vessel of the concrete When curing field-cast specimens, an assortment of
production facility. methods is considered acceptable. The preferred method for
15.1.2 Aggregates—One minimum 25 lb (11.5 kg) sample initial (on-site) curing of high-strength concrete test specimens
of each coarse aggregate, and one minimum 10 lb (4.5 kg) is to promptly immerse the freshly cast specimens in lime-
sample of each fine aggregate used should be obtained. saturated water or to store the specimens in a 100%
Representative samples should be obtained, and segregation humidity-controlled environment. Only nonabsorptive mold
should be avoided during the sampling process. materials should be used.
MATERIALS AND QUALITY CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE ITG-4.2R-21

The measured compressive strength of any concrete is a freezing-and-thawing cycles, fire exposure, chemical exposure,
reflection of the quality of both the concrete itself and the and deterioration caused by injurious substances, should also
testing practices. Unlike normal-strength concrete, high- be evaluated based on the recommendations given in ACI
strength concrete is more sensitive to variations in production 363R. Constructibility properties, such as consistency,
and testing, and additional care should be taken. After 15 workability, pumpability, finishability, setting time, and heat
sets of strength tests have been conducted on individual development, should be evaluated through trial batches to
batches, the consistency of the concrete compressive achieve the requisite mechanical and durability properties.
strength may be statistically evaluated in accordance with Recommendations for specifying high-strength concrete
Chapter 5 of ACI 318-05. are given as follows.
Generally, concrete strengths at less than 7 days of age
should not be used to predict 56-day strengths. Lower-than- 17.1—Raw materials
expected 7-day test results, however, may be a cause for Raw material availability should be confirmed before the
investigation. For example, it would be reasonable to establish start of construction, and materials should be available in
target 7- and 28-day strengths for a mixture having a specified sufficient quality and quantity throughout the project duration.
compressive strength of 10,000 psi (70 MPa) at 56 days to Substitution or alteration of any raw materials used in the
be 7500 and 9500 psi (50 and 65 MPa), respectively, in production of high-strength concrete should not be done
which case measured strengths less than 7000 psi (45 MPa) without verification testing to determine adequacy of the
at 7 days and 9000 psi (60 MPa) at 28 days would be a cause substituted or altered materials for compliance with spec-
for investigation. Regressions in measured strength should ification requirements.
neither be expected nor accepted. If regressions in measured
strength are reported, testing practices should be scrutinized. 17.2—Mixture proportioning
Quality-control and testing procedures for high-strength Mixture proportioning should consider:
concrete are described in detail in ACI 363.2R. 1. The specified strength at a designated acceptance age
according to ACI 318-05;
16.1—Sampling and testing schedule 2. The w/cm to produce desirable mechanical and durability
The following mixture sampling and testing schedule is properties;
recommended: 3. Cementitious material content needed to achieve
• For the first batch of the day and for each 50 yd3 (40 m3) optimal strength;
or fraction thereof produced, or at any time the quality 4. Air entrainment for protection during freezing-and-
of the batch is suspect, the following tests should be thawing conditions. Air entrainment should be limited due to
conducted: its significant detrimental effects, such as decreased strength
– Consistency (ASTM C 143); and higher variations in strength;
– Air content (ASTM C 231); 5. Fine and coarse aggregates should be free from any
– Density (ASTM C 138); and coatings that might impair paste-aggregate bonding. Aggre-
– Temperature (ASTM C 1064). gates should be washed at the aggregate production facility
• For each 100 yd3 (75m3), or fraction thereof produced before shipping, and precautions should be taken to maintain
in one day: cleanliness and prevent contamination at the concrete
– Compressive strength (ASTM C 39). production facility. The sand equivalent value for fine aggre-
Minor adjustments in mixture proportioning by the gates should not be less than 85, and the fineness modulus
concrete producer can facilitate consistent mixture performance should be between 2.5 and 3.2;
and are consistent with the objectives of a performance- 6. Supplementary cementitious material;
based specification. Minor adjustments include variations in 7. Chemical admixtures, which should comply with
the allowable dosage rate of chemical admixtures, such as ASTM C 494;
high-range water-reducing admixtures, or the optional inclusion 8. Combinations of supplementary cementitious materials,
of a set-retarding chemical admixture when environmental chemical admixtures, or both;
conditions warrant. Once established, however, the water 9. Proportioning for workability based on ASTM C 143.
content and cementitious material content of the mixture Mixtures that were designed properly, but appear to change
should not be altered. in character and become stickier, should be considered
suspect and quickly checked for proportions, possible false
CHAPTER 17—SUMMARY AND setting of cement, undesirable entrained or entrapped air, or
RECOMMENDATIONS other changes;
For high-strength concrete to be successfully employed, 10. Laboratory and field trial batches to develop mixtures
special consideration should be given to the mechanical, having suitable materials and proportions. Laboratory trial
durability, and constructibility properties of the concrete. mixtures should be prepared in accordance with ASTM C 192,
Important mechanical properties, such as the axial stress and sufficient lead-time should be allowed before the start of
versus strain behavior and modulus of elasticity, should be construction. Strength characteristics at various test ages, water
compatible with the structural design assumptions. Important demands, rates of slump loss, amount of bleeding, segregation,
durability properties, such as resistance to damage caused by setting time, and mixture density should be evaluated. It
ITG-4.2R-22 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

should be verified that the concrete meets specifications emptied of all wash water before receiving a batch of high-
through field verification tests using equipment, personnel, strength concrete. The concrete production facility should be
materials, mixture proportions, and production-sized batches equipped with an automated measuring device to measure
proposed for use on the project. For each batch evaluated, a the moisture content of the fine aggregates and automatically
minimum of three compressive strength cylinders for each adjust the amount of batch water required, based on the fine
test age should be made. Suitable corrections to the mixture aggregate moisture content. Before the start of production
should be made, if necessary. Any mixture proportion modifi- each day, the moisture content of the fine and coarse aggregates
cation should be submitted to the specifying authority before should be determined in accordance with ASTM C 566.
use on the project. Should there be any reason to believe that the moisture
content of the aggregates has changed significantly, new
17.3—Mixture submittal requirements moisture content determinations should be made immediately.
Concrete mixture proportions should be submitted for Determination of moisture contents should be made far
approval at least 60 days before production. Each mixture enough in advance that the results are available before the
proportion should include the following information: scheduled batching time. A record of aggregate moisture
1. Project identification; content testing should be available at the concrete production
2. Name and address of concrete supplier and concrete facility at all times. Rinsing of the truck collection hoppers
production facility; and internal drum components at the batch plant, after
3. Mixture proportion designation; charging the drum with materials, should not be permitted,
4. Specified compressive strength; except under the supervision of trained quality control or
5. Specified properties of concrete, other than specified plant supervisory personnel. Upon completion of batching,
compressive strength; and the amount of water used for rinsing the truck collection
6. Material proportions, including the raw material types hoppers and internal drum components should be kept to a
and quantities, the saturated surface-dry mass of the coarse minimum, not exceeding 3 gal. (11 L) of water per batch.
and fine aggregates, name and location of all raw material For delivery, the following minimum information should
sources, certificates of compliance for cement, supplementary be included on the delivery (batch) tickets:
cementitious material, aggregates and admixtures, and
1. Name of concrete producer;
statement of method for site admixture adjustments, if proposed.
Documentation should demonstrate that the proposed 2. Name or number of concrete production facility;
concrete proportions will produce concrete meeting the 3. Serial number of delivery ticket;
specified properties. The selection and documentation of 4. Date;
mixture proportions to attain the specified compressive 5. Truck number;
strength should be submitted pursuant to procedures outlined 6. Name of purchaser;
in Fig. R5.3 of ACI 318-05. 7. Specific designation of project (name and location);
8. Mixture identification number or description;
17.4—Preconstruction meetings
Preconstruction meetings should include representatives 9. Amount of concrete in cubic yards (or cubic meters); and
of all parties involved in the specification and production of 10. Time batched or of the first mixing of cement and
the concrete: concrete contractor, general contractor, aggregates.
pumping contractor (if used), testing agency, licensed design Delivery tickets should be filled out completely, and
professional, and owner. should not be surrendered by drivers until completion of
discharge. Mixer drivers should record any pertinent
17.5—Ordering information regarding the load of concrete they are delivering,
The minimum batch size should be 4.0 yd3 (3.0 m3), and such as delivery time or discrepancies in observed sampling
the quantity of concrete ordered should be divided into equal procedures. Delivery of ready mixed concrete should be
sizes. All orders for high-strength concrete should be placed done in accordance with ASTM C 94.
at least 48 hours in advance to allow ample time to inventory The addition of water to high-strength concrete after the
raw materials and to schedule testing and inspection services. concrete has been batched should not be permitted unless the
addition of water is carried out in strict accordance with
17.6—Raw materials handling procedures preapproved by the licensed design professional.
The handling of raw materials for high-strength concrete
should be similar to that of normal-strength concrete.
17.8—Concrete temperature control
17.7—Production and delivery The maximum ambient temperature at time of placement
For production, all raw materials should comply with the should not exceed 95 °F (35 °C). Higher placement temper-
applicable tolerances in ASTM C 94. High-strength concrete atures may be considered only if it can be demonstrated that
should be mixed a minimum of 100 revolutions, or for a placing the concrete at higher temperatures will not be
sufficient period necessary to comply with the concrete detrimental to any specified concrete property.
uniformity requirements of ASTM C 94, whichever is The minimum mixing and placement temperatures should
greater. Trucks should be completely washed out and be in accordance with Table 12.1.
MATERIALS AND QUALITY CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE ITG-4.2R-23

17.9—Placement, consolidation, and finishing 17.12—Concrete sampling and testing


Measures should be taken to ensure that the concrete will Concrete should be sampled and tested according to the
be placed and consolidated without delay upon arrival of the following schedule:
delivery truck at the job site. Equipment for placing the • For the first batch of the day and for each 50 yd3 (40 m3)
concrete should have adequate capacity to perform the or fraction thereof produced, or at any time the quality
required functions efficiently. Ample equipment and of the batch is suspect, the following tests should be
manpower should be provided to consolidate the concrete conducted:
quickly after placement, particularly in highly congested, – Consistency (ASTM C 143);
difficult areas. In the event of breakdowns, standby equipment – Air content (ASTM C 231);
should be available. – Density (ASTM C 138); and
The concrete should be deposited at or near its final posi- – Temperature (ASTM C 1064).
tion in the structure. Buggies, chutes, buckets, hoppers, or • For each 100 yd3 (75 m3), or fraction thereof produced
other means may be used to move the concrete as required. in 1 day, the following test should be conducted:
In applications where concretes having two different – Compressive strength (ASTM C 39). Extra test
strengths are being used simultaneously, the higher-strength cylinders should be held for testing at ages later
concrete should be placed at the prescribed locations before than the designated acceptance age.
the lower-strength concrete.
Water should not be used to increase the workability of CHAPTER 18—REFERENCES
high-strength concrete. In the event the need to increase work- 18.1—Referenced standards and reports
ability arises, a high-range water-reducing admixture of the The standards and reports listed below were the latest
same brand and type as used at the concrete production facility editions at the time this document was prepared. Because
these documents are revised frequently, the reader is advised
should be used. A site-added high-range water-reducing
to contact the respective issuing organization to determine
admixture should be introduced to the batch by means of a
the latest version.
pipe or wand that can introduce the product to the center of the
drum using an automated metering device. Only trained
American Concrete Institute (ACI)
personnel should be allowed to add a high-range water-
reducing admixture. A method statement by the contractor for 116R Cement and Concrete Terminology
the site addition of a high-range water-reducing admixture 201.2R Guide to Durable Concrete
should be submitted, and a record of job-site additions should 209R Prediction of Creep, Shrinkage, and Temperature
be maintained and available at the project site at all times. Effects in Concrete Structures
When consolidating high-strength concrete, the procedures 211.4R Guide for Selecting Proportions for High-Strength
Concrete with Portland Cement and Fly Ash
detailed in ACI 309R should be followed. The consistency of
the concrete should be such that it can be effectively consol- 214R Evaluation of Strength Test Results of Concrete
idated using a minimum amount of vibration. If the concrete 233R Slag Cement in Concrete and Mortar
becomes overdosed with a high-range water-reducing 301 Specifications for Structural Concrete
admixture, segregation will likely occur, and the concrete 304R Guide for Measuring, Mixing, Transporting, and
should not be used. Placing Concrete
306R Cold Weather Concreting
17.10—Curing 308R Guide to Curing Concrete
Curing should begin upon placement of high-strength 309R Guide to Consolidation of Concrete
concrete. When the bleeding rate of high-strength concrete is 318 Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete
exceeded by the evaporation rate, interim curing measures, 363R Report on High-Strength Concrete
such as fog sprays or evaporation retardants, should be used 363.2R Guide to Quality Control and Testing of High-
to prevent plastic-shrinkage cracking. Strength Concrete
In mass concrete, the difference between the warmest and
the coolest portion of the member should not exceed 35 °F ASTM International
(20 °C), unless it can be demonstrated through thermal C 29 Test Method for Bulk Density (Unit Weight) and
modeling that a higher temperature differential is not detri- Voids in Aggregates
mental to the structure. C 31 Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test
Specimens in the Field
17.11—Raw materials sampling and testing C 33 Specification for Concrete Aggregates
Raw materials for high-strength concrete should be C 39 Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylin-
routinely sampled and tested to ensure their conformity to drical Concrete Specimens
the standards listed in Table 5.1 and described in Chapter 15 C 78 Test Method for Flexural Strength of Concrete
of this document. Samples should be obtained at least twice (Using Simple Beam with Third-Point Loading)
per month on randomly selected days. C 94 Specification for Ready-Mixed Concrete
ITG-4.2R-24 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

C 109 Test Method for Compressive Strength of Materials and Aggregates (Accelerated Mortar-Bar
Hydraulic Cement Mortars (Using 2 in. or (50-mm) Method)
Cube Specimens) C 1602 Specification for Mixing Water Used in the Produc-
C 117 Test Method for Materials Finer than 75-μm (No. 200) tion of Hydraulic Cement Concrete
Sieve in Mineral Aggregates by Washing D 2419 Test Method for Sand Equivalent Value of Soils
C 136 Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse and Fine Aggregate
Aggregates
C 138 Test Method for Density (Unit Weight), Yield, and 18.2—Cited references
Air Content (Gravimetric) of Concrete Ahmad, S. H., 1981, “Properties of Confined Concrete
C 143 Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic Cement Subjected to Static and Dynamic Loading,” PhD thesis,
Concrete University of Illinois, Chicago, Ill.
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C 172 Test Method for Sampling Freshly Mixed Concrete Stress-Strain Curves for Concrete,” Proceedings, ASCE,
C 192 Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test V. 108, ST4, Apr., pp. 728-742.
Specimens in the Laboratory Ahmad, S. H., and Shah, S. P., 1982b, “Stress-Strain Curves
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Beams,” ACI Structural Journal, V. 87, No. 5, Sept.-Oct.,
C 260 Specification for Air-Entraining Admixtures for
pp. 583-588.
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Bing, L.; Park, R.; and Tanaka, H., 1994, “Strength and
C 293 Test Method for Flexural Strength of Concrete
Ductility of Reinforced Concrete Members and Frames
(Using Simple Beam with Center-Point Loading)
Constructed Using High-Strength Concrete,” Research
C 311 Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Fly Ash or
Report No. 94-5, University of Canterbury, New Zealand,
Natural Pozzolans for Use as a Mineral Admixture
389 pp.
in Portland-Cement Concrete
Bower, J. E., and Viest, I. M., 1960, “Shear Strength of
C 430 Test Method for Fineness of Cement by the 45-μm
Restrained Concrete Beams without Web Reinforcement,”
(No. 325) Sieve
ACI JOURNAL, Proceedings V. 57, July, pp. 73-98.
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Burg, R. G., and Ost, B. W., 1994, “Engineering Properties
Ground Blast-Furnace Slag in Preventing Exces-
of Commercially Available High-Strength Concretes
sive Expansion of Concrete Due to the Alkali-Silica
(Including Three-Year Data),” Research and Development
Reaction
Bulletin RD104, Portland Cement Association, Skokie, Ill.,
C 469 Test Method for Static Modulus of Elasticity and
58 pp.
Poisson’s Ratio of Concrete in Compression
Carrasquillo, R. L.; Nilson, A. H.; and Slate, F. O., 1981a,
C 494 Specification for Chemical Admixtures for “Properties of High Strength Concrete Subjected to Short-
Concrete Term Loads,” ACI JOURNAL, Proceedings V. 78, No. 3,
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Cylindrical Concrete Specimens Carrasquillo, R. L.; Slate, F. O.; and Nilson, A. H., 1981b,
C 512 Test Method for Creep of Concrete in Compression “Microcracking and Behavior of High-Strength Concrete
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C 1240 Specification for Use of Silica Fume Used in Elasticity, the Modulus of Rupture, Poisson’s Ratio and
Cementitious Mixtures Compressive Strength in Very-High Strength Concrete (60-
C 1260 Test Method for Potential Alkali Reactivity of Aggre- 120 MPa),” MS thesis, Department of Civil Engineering,
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Concrete Members and Frames Constructed Using High- Russell, H. G., and Corley, W. G., 1978, “Time-Dependent
Strength Concrete,” Research Report No. 94-5, Department Behavior of Columns in Water Tower Place,” Douglas
of Civil Engineering, University of Canterbury, McHenry International Symposium on Concrete and
Christchurch, New Zealand, 389 pp. Concrete Structures, SP-55, American Concrete Institute,
Martinez, S.; Nilson, A. H.; and Slate, F. O., 1982, Farmington Hills, Mich., pp. 347-373.
“Spirally-Reinforced High-Strength Concrete Columns,” Shideler, J. J., 1957, “Lightweight-Aggregate Concrete for
Research Report No. 82-10, Department of Structural Engi- Structural Use,” ACI JOURNAL, Proceedings V. 54, No. 4,
neering, Cornell University, Ithaca, N.Y. Apr., pp. 299-328.
Mokhtarzadeh, A., and French, C., 2000a, “Time- Smadi, M. M.; Slate, F. O.; and Nilson, A. H., 1985, “High,
Dependant Properties of High-Strength Concrete with Medium, and Low Strength Concrete Subject to Sustained
ITG-4.2R-26 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT

Loads Strains, Strengths and Failure Mechanisms,” ACI ii. Client requirements
JOURNAL, Proceedings V. 82, No. 5, Sept.-Oct., pp. 657-664. b. Review of special batch plant procedures for high-
Stark, D., 2002, “Performance of Concrete in Sulfate strength concrete
Environments,” Publication RD 129, Portland Cement c. Minimum batch size
Association, Skokie, Ill. d. Inspection requirements during batching
Teychenne, D. C.; Parrott, L. J.; and Pomeroy, C. D., i. Building department requirements
1978, “The Estimation of the Elastic Modulus of Concrete ii. Client requirements
for the Design of Structures,” Current Paper No. CP23/78, e. Restrictions on addition of water after batching
Building Research Establishment, Garston, Watford, 11 pp. (such as wash down of truck hopper before leaving
Wafa, F. F., and Ashour, S. A., 1992, “Mechanical Properties batch plant)
of High-Strength Fiber Reinforced Concrete,” ACI Materials f. Batch ticket procedures at the batch plant
Journal, V. 89, No. 2, Mar.-Apr., pp. 449-455.
Yang, Y.; Shen, J.; and Myers, J. J., 2002, “Instrumentation 3. Concrete transportation
Plan and Early-Age Monitoring of High Performance a. Restrictions on addition of water or admixtures
Concrete Bridge Girders in Missouri,” Proceedings for the during transportation
Transportation Research Board, 2002 Annual Meeting b. Maximum transportation time
Washington, D.C., 11 pp. c. Batch ticket procedures for the driver

APPENDIX—SAMPLE AGENDA FOR 4. Concrete placement


PRECONSTRUCTION MEETING CONCERNING a. Restrictions on addition of water or admixtures at
HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE
This example agenda illustrates the typical range of topics the job site
that are discussed at a preconstruction meeting for a project b. Slump requirements before and after addition of
involving high-strength concrete. It is not intended to serve admixtures
as a general template for any project. The agenda should be c. Slump measurement procedures (such as slump to
customized for each project, based on the discussion in be measured at the end of the pump hose)
Chapter 8 of this report. d. Identification of authority for ordering the addition
of admixtures
Concrete preconstruction meeting agenda e. Inspection requirements during placement
(Project) f. Procedures for priming concrete pump
(Meeting Location) g. Procedures for concrete placement at cold joints
(Date and Time) h. Batch ticket procedures at the job site
i. Backup equipment to be furnished at the job site
1. Concrete mixture proportions j. Concrete curing procedures
a. Review of approved mixture proportions and 5. Concrete testing
identification numbers a. Procedures for concrete sampling and the casting of
b. Review of approved admixtures and substitutions test cylinders and determination of air content,
c. Substitution of mixture proportions with higher density, and temperature
strength than specified b. Procedures for on-site and off-site curing of test
d. Procedures and schedule for submitting alternate cylinders
mixture proportions for approval c. Concrete ages for cylinder testing
d. Procedures for documentation and distribution of
2. Concrete batching test reports
a. Batch plant inspection requirements and schedule e. Procedures for addressing non-conforming test
i.Building department requirements results for strength, temperature, or air content
®
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As ACI begins its second century of advancing concrete knowledge, its original chartered purpose
remains “to provide a comradeship in finding the best ways to do concrete work of all kinds and in
spreading knowledge.” In keeping with this purpose, ACI supports the following activities:

· Technical committees that produce consensus reports, guides, specifications, and codes.

· Spring and fall conventions to facilitate the work of its committees.

· Educational seminars that disseminate reliable information on concrete.

· Certification programs for personnel employed within the concrete industry.

· Student programs such as scholarships, internships, and competitions.

· Sponsoring and co-sponsoring international conferences and symposia.

· Formal coordination with several international concrete related societies.

· Periodicals: the ACI Structural Journal and the ACI Materials Journal, and Concrete International.

Benefits of membership include a subscription to Concrete International and to an ACI Journal. ACI
members receive discounts of up to 40% on all ACI products and services, including documents, seminars
and convention registration fees.

As a member of ACI, you join thousands of practitioners and professionals worldwide who share a
commitment to maintain the highest industry standards for concrete technology, construction, and
practices. In addition, ACI chapters provide opportunities for interaction of professionals and practitioners
at a local level.

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Farmington Hills, MI 48331
U.S.A.
Phone: 248-848-3700
Fax: 248-848-3701
www.concrete.org
Materials and Quality Considerations for High-Strength
Concrete in Moderate to High Seismic Applications

The AMERICAN CONCRETE INSTITUTE


was founded in 1904 as a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to public
service and representing the user interest in the field of concrete. ACI gathers and
distributes information on the improvement of design, construction and
maintenance of concrete products and structures. The work of ACI is conducted by
individual ACI members and through volunteer committees composed of both
members and non-members.

The committees, as well as ACI as a whole, operate under a consensus format,


which assures all participants the right to have their views considered. Committee
activities include the development of building codes and specifications; analysis of
research and development results; presentation of construction and repair
techniques; and education.

Individuals interested in the activities of ACI are encouraged to become a member.


There are no educational or employment requirements. ACI’s membership is
composed of engineers, architects, scientists, contractors, educators, and
representatives from a variety of companies and organizations.

Members are encouraged to participate in committee activities that relate to their


specific areas of interest. For more information, contact ACI.

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