Optimizing constituent ranges in self-compacting steel-fiber reinforced concrete: A methodological approach

This paper presents a refined methodology for the design of self-compacting steel-fiber reinforced concrete (SCSFRC), building upon our previous work [ Construction and Building Materials 189 (2018) 409–419]. The approach combines rheological modeling and micromechanical principles to ensure fluidity, stability, and mechanical performance. Specifically, it incorporates a phase-wise application of the Krieger–Dougherty equation, the theory of excess layer thickness, and the concept of total relative packing fraction. A total of 25 SCSFRC mixtures were specifically designed, produced, and tested to explore a wide range of rheological and mechanical conditions. From this experimental campaign, optimal ranges for the main constituent materials are identified. These ranges offer a valuable reference for mix designers, independently of whether the proposed methodology is applied. The framework contributes to a more rational and consistent design of SCSFRC, particularly with hooked steel fibers, and supports industrial practice by enabling more precise, performance-oriented concrete formulations with reduced reliance on empirical trial-and-error. • Proposal of optimized constituent ranges for SCSFRC. • Extensive experimental campaign to obtain the optimized ranges. • Design based on advanced rheological analysis and prognosis of mechanical performance. • Streamlined design process.