Improving Workability of Cement Concrete

Workability of cement concrete refers to the ease with which the concrete can be mixed, transported, placed, compacted, and finished without any segregation or bleeding. The workability of concrete is an important parameter as it affects the strength, durability, and appearance of the concrete structure. There are several ways to improve the workability of cement concrete, including:

1. Increasing the proportion of coarse Aggregate

The proportion of coarse aggregate in concrete affects its workability. If the proportion of coarse aggregate is high, the concrete mix becomes stiff, and the workability decreases. On the other hand, if the proportion of coarse aggregate is low, the concrete mix becomes more workable. Hence, increasing the proportion of coarse aggregate in the concrete mix can improve its workability.

2. Increasing the quantity of water

Water is an essential component of concrete, and it plays a crucial role in determining the workability of the concrete mix. The quantity of water used in the concrete mix affects its consistency, and an increase in the quantity of water can improve the workability of the concrete mix. However, excessive water can lead to bleeding and segregation, which can compromise the strength and durability of the concrete.

3. Reducing the quantity of water

While increasing the quantity of water can improve the workability of the concrete mix, reducing the quantity of water can also improve its workability. This can be achieved by using superplasticizers or water-reducing agents, which can improve the flowability of the concrete mix without affecting its strength and durability.

4. Using good quality of shuttering plates

Shuttering plates play an important role in determining the workability of concrete. The quality of the shuttering plates used in the construction site can affect the consistency of the concrete mix. If the shuttering plates are not of good quality, they can absorb moisture from the concrete mix, making it stiffer and reducing its workability. Hence, using good quality of shuttering plates can improve the workability of the concrete mix.

In conclusion, the workability of cement concrete can be improved by increasing the proportion of coarse aggregate, increasing or reducing the quantity of water, and using good quality of shuttering plates. These measures can help achieve the desired workability of the concrete mix, which is essential for the successful construction of concrete structures.