Title: Fracture and Material Properties of Roller Compacted Concrete

Author(s): E. K. Schrader

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 144

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 325-348

Keywords: compaction; compression; construction; costs; dams; density (mass/volume); fracture properties; material properties; mix proportioning; modulus of elasticity; permeability; tension; roller compacted concrete; stability; strains; structural design; strengt

DOI: 10.14359/4535

Date: 3/1/1994

Abstract:
Roller compacted concrete (RCC) can possess hardened material properties similar to conventional concrete, but it can also have properties that are well beyond the range that would normally be attributed to conventionally placed concrete. For example, RCC has been used with a modulus of elasticity about 20 times less than normal. Creep rates can be considerably greater than normal. Compressive and tensile strengths can cover a broad range, starting essentially with zero strength and going to high strength levels. The properties that tend to cover a broad range are generally those that are essentially time-dependent. The ability of RCC to have this broad range of properties means that it can also have substantially different toughness and fracture behavior. Lower strength mixtures tend to be much more elastic and have substantial strain capacity after leaving the elastic range. High-strength RCC tends to behave more like conventional concrete with sudden and rapid failure after reaching its elastic limit. Understanding the potential material properties of RCC and utilizing appropriate values in design is crucial to achieving economical and efficient structures. Obtaining the best overall concrete mixture and structural design for applications ranging from dams on variable foundations to pavements is dependent on these properties.