Principles of concrete proportioning

Principles of concrete proportioning

The term “principles of concrete proportioning” is used frequently. A primary facet of high-strength concrete technology is that the empirical relationships best suited for determining the quantities of each constituent material is quite different than for conventional-strength concrete. The objectives of the proportioning process remain unchanged; however, the paths, or “principles” required to satisfy those objectives are often very different with high-strength concrete. For example, the size and quantity of coarse aggregate necessary to achieve optimum strength performance at a given age depends on the target strength under consideration. Common objectives include satisfying requirements for strength, durability consistency (slump or slump spread), pump ability, workability, or setting time. Less common, but equally important objectives, if necessary, might involve satisfying requirements for modulus of elasticity, creep, heat of hydration,or shrinkage.