A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF BOND STRENGTH BEHAVIOUR BETWEEN STEEL REINFORCEMENT AND SELF-COMPACTING CONCRETE UNDER DIFFERENT CURING CONDITIONS, CONFINEMENT LEVELS, AND BAR SURFACE DEFORMATIONS

Abstract

Self-compacting concrete (SCC) has gained significant acceptance in modern construction practice due to its superior workability and flowability characteristics that eliminate the need for mechanical vibration. However, the bond behaviour between steel reinforcement and SCC remains an area requiring comprehensive understanding, particularly under varying curing conditions, confinement levels, and bar surface deformations. This systematic review synthesizes existing knowledge from 45+ peer-reviewed studies to evaluate how these three primary factors influence bond strength development, failure mechanisms, and long-term durability. Key findings indicate that SCC typically demonstrates

 4-10% higher normalized bond strengths compared to conventionally vibrated concrete, primarily due to superior compaction and reduced segregation. Curing temperature significantly affects bond development, with elevated temperatures (50°C) accelerating early-age strength development while potentially reducing long-term durability. Transverse confinement through stirrups or hoops can enhance bond strength by 30-60%, with closer spacing providing more pronounced benefits. Bar surface deformations, including ribbing, sand-coating, and helical wrapping, substantially influence bond transfer mechanisms, with helically wrapped surfaces exhibiting 25-40% higher bond strengths compared to plain bars. This review provides critical insights for structural engineers and researchers regarding optimal curing practices, reinforcement detailing, and design considerations for SCC structures, ultimately contributing to more durable and efficiently designed reinforced concrete systems.