Civil Engineering - Building Materials - Discussion

The water-cement ratio is a measure of the amount of water used in a concrete mixture relative to the amount of cement. The water-cement ratio is important because it affects the strength, durability, and workability of the concrete. Different types of structures and environments may require different water-cement ratios to achieve optimal results.

For thin structures subjected to wetting and drying, such as walls and bridges, the water-cement ratio should be around 0.45. For mass concrete structures subjected to wetting and drying, such as dams and foundations, the water-cement ratio should be around 0.55.

For thin structures that remain continuously under water, such as slabs and beams, the water-cement ratio should be around 0.55. For massive concrete structures that remain continuously under water, such as piers and abutments, the water-cement ratio should be around 0.65.

That 0.65 is way too more. For massive structures, we will keep w/c ration very less. Because as w/c ratio increases strength decreases. Just google for WC ratio vs strength, you will get the graph to understand. And for underwater structures, we always try to make WC less.

@All.

As we see in the IS Code-10262, it,s clear that the W/C ratio is fixed based on the experience (d/mix done earlier if any for that area) and trail mix for the particular Gr of concrete. It also depends on the workability (i.e, the reqd. Slump).

W/C ratio normally increases for the higher Gr. of Concrete. The Selection of Gr.of concrete basically depends on the factor like- (a) Types of structure (b) Location of structure (i.e, exposure condition) )to be constructed (c) Strength required for the Concrete.

So, confirming the W/C ratio without considering the above factors is not practically acceptable.

In case of under water mass concrete structure, w/c ratio should be high as the concrete needs high degree of work ability. Similarly for thin concrete structures also.

As the material is thin it will not require much water, even in dry as well in wet condition because it will have the tendency to fulfill its water requirement, but in case of mass concrete it will need enough water for its hydration whether in dry or wet condition, its because it is thick.

How is it possible? For underwater?

For thin structures which remain continuously underwater, the water-cement ratio by weight should be 0.55.

Strength of concrete primarily depends upon the strength of cement paste. Strength of cement paste depends upon the dilution of paste or in other words, the strength of paste increases with cement content and decreases with air and water content.

It's based upon IS456-2000 Exposure conditions.

On what dose the foundation of a construction rest on?

.65 wc ratio its bit high, and asking for segregation.