Measuring Procedures

The interest in developing scientific approaches to assess and predict fresh properties grasped much attention in recent years due to the advent of innovative materials incorporating a variety of admixtures, supplementary cementitious materials and fillers. As a result, rheology has become an essential tool to provide an accurate measurement and characterization of rheological properties. This chapter provides an overview of test procedures commonly employed for rheological analysis and tool geometries, including concentric cylinders, vane geometry, cone plate geometry, parallel plate, and squeeze test, and key rheological properties, including static yield stress, build-up and break down, and principles and measuring techniques involved. Fundamental parameters used in rheology, including shear stress, shear rate, viscosity, and yield stress are presented. Test procedures to assess flow curves, data analysis, and transformation equations are discussed. Additionally, possible measurement artifacts are discussed with strategies for error reduction. Employing appropriate test methods and understanding the underlying principles is important for designing appropriate testing methodologies and interpreting the results effectively, hence allowing good understanding of material behaviour.