Rheology and Its Relation to Strain-Hardening Properties of Strain-Hardening Cement-Based Composites

An improvement of the theology of strain-hardening cement-based composites (SHCCs) has a maximal influence on the dispersion of microfibers in the cementitious matrix. Efficient fiber dispersion leads to a better SHCC performance with the lowest fiber content. The efficiency of the crack-bridging farce of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) microfibers for load transfer within the cementitious matrix is affected by SHCC composition, which is a function of the ingredients of the mixture and its theology. The aim of this work was to monitor and evaluate the modification taken place in the rheology of a successful SHCC mixture due to the initial and gradual incorporation of its individual ingredients. A correlation between the optimized theological parameters of successful SHCC mixture and its strain-hardening properties was established. Rheologv of SHCC is an important tool to formulate cost-effective and efficient SHCC mixtures within a defined range of rheological parameters.