Title: Rheological Behavior and Setting Time of Microfine Cement-Based Grouts

Author(s): Stephanie Perret, Danielle Palardy, and Gerard Ballivy

Publication: Materials Journal

Volume: 97

Issue: 4

Appears on pages(s): 472-478

Keywords: grout; rheology; water-reducing (high range) admixture

DOI: 10.14359/7413

Date: 7/1/2000

Abstract:
In specific grouting applications, such as for fine soils and finely cracked structures (rock or concrete), microfine cement-based grouts are often used instead of chemical grouts that were frequently used in the past. Different types of microfine cements are available, and their chemical and physical characteristics vary widely. Microfine cements are systematically used with a high-range water reducer (HRWR) to obtain desirable workability. In this study, six different microfine cements (three portland-based and three slag-based), associated with four different HRWRs, show the effect of grout composition and grout formulation on performance of grouts. Interaction between cement and admixtures influences the rheological characteristics and the final setting time of fresh grouts. Changing cement type in an optimized grout formulation or HRWR type leads to changes in grout properties. To obtain a good grout quality (fluid and stable), it is therefore important to control their behavior in the laboratory with routine tests that are reproducible in the field. Grout formulations and components used in field work have to be the same as those tested in the laboratory.