Title: Specification for Silica Fume for Use in Concrete

Author(s): T. C. Holland

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 154

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 607-638

Keywords: concretes; silica fume; specifications; Materials Research

DOI: 10.14359/971

Date: 5/1/1995

Abstract:
Silica fume has been available commercially in the United States for over 10 years. Until recently, there has not been a well-accepted consensus specification for it. This paper deals with the question of a specification for silica fume for use in concrete by reviewing the following areas. 1. ASTM and AASHTO efforts to develop a specification for silica fume are described. The author's comments on these documents are presented. 2. The status of international efforts to develop silica fume specifications is reviewed. Work from Australia, Canada, Norway, RILEM, South Africa, and other European countries is reviewed to indicate the direction that is being taken outside the United States. 3. Recommendations, based upon the author's experience with silica fume since its introduction to the United States, for what a specification for silica fume for use in concrete should include are presented. The use of silica fume is increasing every year. Some engineers, particularly those in public agencies, have been hesitant to use the material because of the lack of a standard specification. Most engineers wanting to use silica fume have developed their own specification for silica fume with provisions that may have little or no relationship to the performance of the material in concrete. A consensus needs to be established to increase the confidence of specifiers wanting to use silica fume.