ABSTRACT
Introduction Once a set of performance targets and mixture proportions have been developed on paper, the next step is to qualify the mixture to ensure successful performance during production. The Interim Guidelines developed by the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) present three phases in the mixture qualification process:1 first, small, well-controlled laboratory batches are tested; second, the chosen mixture(s) is tested in production, which includes the use of hatching, mixing, and placement equipment; and finally, a quality assurance/control plan for the fresh and hardened properties is developed. This chapter addresses the laboratory testing and production trial phase of the qualification process; quality control will be addressed in Chapter 11.
