ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with the concept of the performance of concrete and its relationship to the prevailing environment around the structure constructed using it. After looking at the environmental interactions around the structure, the methodology by which a performance evaluation is conducted and the broad interactions in the various deterioration and corrosion parameters have been presented. In this context this chapter tries to explain the various environmental interactions that necessitate different performance levels under different exposure conditions. It is seen that most self-consolidating concretes contain only fly ash as the powder extender and the need to recognize its pozzolanic strength efficiency in assessing the characteristics of the resulting concrete are presented. A detailed discussion on the evaluation methodology of the efficiency of fly ash and its appropriate representation through the dual factors of general and percentage efficiencies is presented. Finally, a methodology for the production of self-consolidating concretes that recognizes both pozzolanic efficiency and optimal granular skeleton is proposed. An outline of how to limit the powder content through the utilization of the different pozzolanic admixtures at the lower and higher ends to ensure a wide range of concrete strengths is discussed. The effectiveness of this technology in achieving high-performance self-consolidating cementitious composites has been verified through a brief set of test results available in the laboratory.
