ABSTRACT
The fact remains that the materials used for self-consolidating concretes (SCCs) are essentially the same and were also known to the concrete researcher even their initial conceptual definition. However, it is not only obvious but also practical that most constructions use materials available locally to ensure the production of SCCs. The chapter presents the complete characteristics of the different cements and the supplementary cementitious materials that are available for the making of self-consolidating compositions. It also focuses on some specific aspects relating to supplementary cementitious materials that influence the various characteristics in concretes that are produced using them. A brief outline of superplasticizers and other chemical admixtures that are appropriate for the production of SCCs is given. It is important to note that aggregates form a major component and their gradation as delineated in the various codal provisions is discussed in detail to help later discussions. The present German recommendations of combined gradation is explained in detail to ensure that later discussions on grading of aggregates are clear. The possible interaction problems as well as compatibility between the different materials, particularly superplasticizers with cements and pozzolanic admixtures, are also discussed.
