Is concrete strength primarily a function of water content? E.g., let's say:
concrete mixture A contains (per cubic metre)
- 400kg cement
- 180kg water
- 1900kg aggregate
for a slump of 10cm
And let's say that for 10cm slump we can also make concrete mixture B, which is not as strong
- 250kg cement
- 300kg water
- 2000kg aggregate
If we aim to make concrete mixture A, but end up adding 300kg water instead of 180kg, does this result in the same strength as concrete mixture B, which has much less cement, but was properly mixed?
I.e. is concrete strength primarily a function of the actual quantity of water added, or does the mixture somehow shed excess water without losing strength, or only losing partial strength?
Best Answer
No. Overwatering results in a much weaker mix. The water eventually leaves the concrete, resulting in a very porous structure. You also get more cure shrinkage, and the aggregate mix can settle.
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