Thixotropy Improvers To Control Formwork Pressure Of Self-consolidating Concrete Containing Slump-keeping Polycarboxylate Ethers

Abstract

Slump-keeping polycarboxylate ether (SK-PCE) polymers improve workability retention but attenuate the development of thixotropy, leading to higher lateral formwork pressure and slower decay over time. This study evaluates the time-dependent evolution of static yield stress in self-consolidating concrete (SCC) with varying SK-PCE dosages, including the benefits of thixotropy improvers to accelerate the restructuring process without compromising the slump flow retention. A cellulosic-based viscosity modifying admixture (VMA) and a propylene carbonate-based thixotropy enhancing agent (TEA) are used. Results indicate that coupling SK-PCE with VMA or TEA can effectively boost the structural build-up and mitigate the high lateral pressure associated with slump retention. The yield stress evolution was found to be highly dependent on shearing history; tests conducted under undisturbed conditions accurately predicted lateral pressure at rest. The study identifies three SCC thixotropy categories, proposing that intermediate rates of 0.12–0.24 Pa/sec optimally balance pressure drop and mechanical performance.

Department(s)

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

Formwork pressure; Polycarboxylate ethers; Self-consolidating concrete; Thixotropy; Yield stress

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

0950-0618

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2026 Elsevier, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

19 Sep 2026

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