The characteristic strength of concrete is defined as that strength b...
The characteristic strength is defined as the material below which not more than 5 percent of the test results are expected to fall.
Hence the option B is correct.
View all questions of this test
The characteristic strength of concrete is defined as that strength b...
The characteristic strength of concrete
The characteristic strength of concrete is an important parameter used in the design of structures. It is defined as the strength below which not more than a certain percentage of test results are expected to fall. In this case, the correct answer is option B, which states that not more than 5% of the test results are expected to fall below the characteristic strength.
Significance of characteristic strength
The characteristic strength of concrete is used in structural design to ensure the safety and reliability of the structure. It represents the strength that can be expected from a particular grade of concrete under normal conditions. By specifying a characteristic strength, engineers can design structures with a certain level of confidence in the material's performance.
Determining the characteristic strength
To determine the characteristic strength of concrete, a large number of test specimens are prepared and tested in a laboratory. The test results are then analyzed statistically to determine the strength below which a certain percentage of the results fall. In the case of characteristic strength, not more than 5% of the test results should be lower than the specified value.
Importance of the chosen percentage
The percentage chosen for the characteristic strength depends on various factors, including the level of confidence required and the consequences of failure. In most cases, a value of 5% is considered appropriate as it provides a reasonable level of confidence in the material's performance while allowing for some variability in test results.
Application in design
Once the characteristic strength is determined, it is used in structural design calculations. The design strength of concrete is typically taken as a certain multiple of the characteristic strength. This multiple, known as the design factor or partial safety factor, accounts for uncertainties in material properties, variations in construction, and other factors.
Conclusion
The characteristic strength of concrete is an important parameter used in structural design. It represents the strength below which not more than a certain percentage of test results are expected to fall. By specifying a characteristic strength, engineers can ensure the safety and reliability of structures, taking into account the variability of concrete strength. In this case, the correct answer is option B, which states that not more than 5% of the test results are expected to fall below the characteristic strength.