Mastering the rheology of fresh concrete: New knowledge from a DFG priority program SPP 2005

The processing of cement‐based building materials represents the technological core in the construction and maintenance of structures. However, a scientific framework for mastering rheology‐based processes is still in an early stage of its development. The reason for this is the extremely high complexity of cementitious systems. This complexity includes the high chemical reactivity of mineral binders, the complex multi‐phase nature of fresh concrete or mortar, and a wide range of deformation rates during various technological processes, which result in extremely high demands for characterization and simulation methods. The goal of the DFG Priority Program SPP 2005 “Opus Fluidum Futurum – Rheology of reactive, multiscale, multiphase construction materials” is to ascertain and describe the scientific fundamentals for understanding and, subsequently, designing rheology‐based construction processes as well as for developing innovative, sustainable building materials and associated pioneering processing technologies. The article at hand presents the purpose and the structure of the collaborative research as well as the achievements of the priority program. Furthermore, it offers some insights into ongoing and planned research.