Eco-efficient self-compacting concrete with low cement consumption

Abstract Self-compacting concretes must simultaneously present fluidity and cohesion without the presence of exudation and segregation. These necessary characteristics of concrete in the fresh state are usually possible only through high contents of fines and, consequently, higher consumption of cement for its production. The consolidation of this material has instigated the search for solutions to reduce cement consumption and CO2 emissions. Aiming to contribute to environmental sustainability and the cement industry, this research study investigated the technical and economic feasibility of self-compacting concrete with low cement consumption. The densities of the concretes were determined, as well as their resistance to compression and diametral compression traction. The study analysed three concretes with reduced cement consumption and one reference concrete. The water/cement, fibre limestone/cement and active silica/cement ratios were maintained constant, while cement consumption ranged from 434.00 kg/m3 to 325.50 kg/m3, thus achieving a reduction of up to 25% in cement consumption. The results showed that it is feasible to produce self-compacting concrete with low cement consumption, guaranteeing the quality of its mechanical properties, with approximately cost reductions and CO2 emission of 6% and 19% respectively in relation to the reference concrete.