Recent trends in self-flowing mortar with supplementary cementitious material

Self-flowing mortar (SFM) is a flowing mortar mixture which is able to consolidate without any kind of mechanical vibration. The highly fluid nature of SFM makes it suitable for placing in difficult conditions, narrow spaces and in sections with congested reinforcement. Use of SFM can also help minimize hearing-related damages on the work site that are induced by mechanical vibration. Another advantage of SFM is that the time and manpower required for placement is considerably reduced. This type mortar mix also eliminates the chance of insufficient compaction in mortar caused by bad workmanship. SFM can be prepared using many industrial and agricultural by-products and wastes. On one hand it will lower the production cost, on the other hand, it will save the cost of disposal. This study is focused on principle, raw materials, preparation techniques and recent development of SFM. Preparing a self-flowing mortar mix without compromising its strength properties is a big challenge, as the rheological properties often contradicts with the mechanical properties. Low viscosity and particle homogeneity is required for adequate fluidity of fresh mix. Using superplasticiser and addition of some specific filler materials improve flow ability but often decrease strength properties. An optimization between fluidity and strength is required. The aim of this study is to summarize available knowledge on SFM to make it easy to optimize for industrial use, as well as find the gap and give direction for future research.