Title:
Admixtures and Aggregates: Key Elements in "Athletic Concrete" - Revisited
Author(s):
William S. Phelan
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
26
Issue:
9
Appears on pages(s):
40-43
Keywords:
High-performance concrete; supplementary cementitious materials; LEED
DOI:
Date:
9/1/2004
Abstract:
This article revisits “athletic concrete” commented upon by this author in an earlier edition of Concrete International (April, 2000). Athletic concrete is proportioned with a high content of maximum size coarse aggregate, a combined aggregate gradation meeting ACI guidelines for maximum density, and a low water content. Supplementary cementitious materials such as fly ash, slag, and silica fume, and high-range and mid-range water-reducing admixtures are also included. The concrete has two-tiered high performance. Initially, the concrete must have the proper workability, pumpability, finishability, and setting times. Then, in its hardened state, long-term durability, minimal cracking and curling, proper finish, and adequate compressive and flexural strengths are required.