High-performance self-compacting concrete: A systematic review

High-performance self-compacting concrete (HPSCC) has emerged as an advanced cementitious material for the construction industry because it can flow, fill formwork, and consolidate under its own weight without mechanical vibration. This technology improves concrete placement in congested reinforcement and complex geometries, while reducing execution time, labour requirements, and construction costs. Nevertheless, its performance, particularly under aggressive environmental exposure and in mixtures incorporating high-range water-reducing admixtures (HRWR), still involves technical and durability challenges that require systematic assessment. This study analyses and synthesises the most relevant scientific literature on the physical, mechanical, rheological, and durability properties of HPSCC, with emphasis on the influence of HRWR admixtures. A systematic literature review was conducted in three stages: planning, execution, and reporting. The search was performed in Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect, considering peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2025. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to select studies addressing mix design, mechanical properties, durability performance, supplementary cementitious materials, and admixture effects. Bibliometric indicators and author collaboration networks were generated using VOSviewer Nees Jan van Eck y Ludo Waltman (Universidad de Leiden). The results show sustained growth in HPSCC research, mainly in Asia, Europe, and North America. Five thematic clusters were identified, focused on mix design optimisation, supplementary cementitious materials, rheological behaviour, chemical durability, and sustainable constituents. Recent studies highlight fibres, next-generation admixtures, recycled materials, and artificial intelligence for mixture optimisation. HPSCC is a promising alternative for demanding and sustainable structural applications; however, long-term durability, aggressive exposure, and fresh–hardened property interactions require further research under diverse construction conditions worldwide.