Is vibration required for Self-Consolidating Concrete (SCC) when properly placed?

Self-Consolidating Concrete (SCC) is specifically designed to flow into place and fill forms without the need for mechanical vibration. This property is a key feature of SCC, as it is formulated with a high fluidity, which allows it to consolidate under its own weight. The incorporation of specific admixtures and an optimized aggregate grading helps achieve this characteristic, making it capable of flowing easily around reinforcement and into intricate form shapes.

Because of these attributes, when SCC is properly placed, vibration is not required to eliminate air bubbles or to help the concrete achieve a uniform density. In fact, the use of vibration on SCC can sometimes lead to segregation of the materials, negatively affecting the overall strength and durability of the concrete. Therefore, the correct stance is that vibration is deemed unnecessary when SCC is correctly mixed and placed, as its unique composition allows it to achieve high-quality consolidation naturally.