Effects of Different Properties of Aggregates on the Properties of Concrete

Effect of Size

Variation in the size of Aggregates changes the water demand, cement content, micro-cracking (strength) in concrete. It also effects pumpability, and durability of concrete.

Effect of Grading

Grading of aggregates depends on the proportions of coarse and fine aggregate. If grading of aggregate is varied, it also changes cement paste content (cost economy), workability of the mix, density and porosity.

Effects of Surface Texture

Surface texture of aggregates itself depends on rock hardness, grain size, porosity, previous exposure and affects workability, paste demand, initial strength of concrete. Shape and surface texture affects usually the properties of freshly mixed concrete. Rough-textured and elongated particles require more cement paste to produce workable concrete mixtures, thus increasing the cost

Effects of absorption & Surface Moisture

Affects the following concrete behaviors: Mix-design, soundness of concrete & strength/abrasion resistance.