Pore structure of self-compacting concretes made using different superplasticizers

The paper presents the results of investigations into the pore structure of self-compacting concretes made from the same components, except for the added (two most commonly used in building practice) superplasticizers. It is shown that the pore structure depends on the superplasticizer used. Also the results of tests carried out to determine the mechanical properties of the investigated concretes, including their compressive strength and the levels of cracking initiating stress and critical stress (demarcating the particular stages in failure under compression), are presented. It is shown that the properties depend on the pore structure.