Rheological simulation of precast concrete and correlation with standard laboratory tests

Rheological measurement is a useful tool to characterize the behaviour of precast concrete (PC) in fluid stage and to solve problems of mix design. Indeed, empirical methods are often not adequate as they are affected by the operator's subjective evaluation and they are not accurate for a proper evaluation of the effects of raw materials, such as the type of cement and the amount of admixture. In particular, we will use rheological characterization to study the influence of admixture amount and on yield and viscosity of fresh concrete. This information can used for a better mix design and to optimize the use of precast concrete in its final destination. (paper)