Aggregates and Water

Aggregates constitute nearly three-quarters of the total volume of concrete and are classified based on their size, source, composition, and weight. Based …

The shape of the coarse aggregate is defined by two characteristics: roundness, which indicates the sharpness or angularity of its edges and corners, and …

The strength of a concrete mix made of rough and angular aggregates is higher than that of smooth and rounded aggregates. This is because a rough surface …

To ensure the durability of a concrete airport runway, the aggregates within the concrete require sufficient toughness to withstand impact forces and …

The specific gravity of aggregate is the ratio of the density of aggregates to the density of distilled water at a given temperature. The density of …

The bulk density of aggregates indicates the mass of aggregates within a unit volume, including the void spaces existing among them. It is generally …

The porosity of aggregate refers to the volume of pores in the aggregate. These pores vary in size and are either enclosed within the aggregate or …

The moisture content of the aggregate is the excess water present on the surface of the aggregate that exists in a saturated and surface-dry state. It is …

Consider a lightweight aggregate with a porous structure. Water entering these pores expands in volume upon freezing, generating hydraulic pressure within …

Natural sand may contain organic impurities, such as decayed vegetative matter, which interfere with the hydration of cement. A colorimetric test is …

Sieve analysis of aggregates is carried out using a set of sieves stacked in descending order of their aperture size from top to bottom.  The sizes …

Consider a sample of fine aggregates being sieved through a standard set of sieves. Note the weight of aggregates retained on each sieve. Calculate the …

Aggregate grading signifies the particle size distribution within a sample of aggregate. Well-graded aggregates contain all the required aggregate size …

Conventionally, the maximum aggregate size is determined by the sieve size that retains at least 15 percent of the particles in a sample set. As the …

Water added to concrete aids in the hydration of cement, contributing to the strength and durability of concrete. Generally, potable water, if available, …

If the quality of water available for preparing concrete is uncertain, its suitability is determined by comparing the setting time of cement and the …