CE3403 CONCRETE TECHNOLOGY

UNIT I

CONSTITUENT MATERIALS
Cement-Different types-Chemical composition and Properties -Tests on cement-IS Specifications-
Aggregates-Classification-Mechanical properties and tests as per BIS Grading requirements-Water-
Quality of water for use in concrete.

PART A-(2 marks)

1. What is the function of gypsum in the manufacture of cement?
Gypsum is added to cement during its manufacture to regulate the setting time. Without gypsum,
cement would set too quickly when mixed with water, making it difficult to work with. Specifically,
gypsum helps control the hydration process of tricalcium aluminate (C₃A), one of the key
compounds in cement, which otherwise reacts rapidly with water and causes flash setting.

2. Mention the constituents or (chemical composition) of ordinary Portland cement.

1. Lime (CaO) – 60-67%
2. Silica (SiO₂) – 17-25%
3. Alumina (Al₂O₃) – 3-8%
4. Iron Oxide (Fe₂O₃) – 0.5-6%
5. Magnesia (MgO) – 0.1-4%
6. Sulfur Trioxide (SO₃) – 1-3% (from gypsum)
7. Alkalies (Na₂O, K₂O) – 0.2-1%

3. List the BIS grading requirements for aggregates?

Coarse Aggregate (As per IS 383)
Coarse aggregates are those retained on a 4.75 mm IS sieve. They are classified into different
nominal sizes: 10 mm, 20 mm, and 40 mm.
Fine Aggregate (As per IS 383)
Fine aggregate consists of particles smaller than 4.75 mm and is categorized into four grading zones:

4. Write the hydration reaction of tricalcium silicate.

The hydration reaction of tricalcium silicate (C₃S), a major compound in Ordinary Portland Cement
(OPC), occurs when it reacts with water, producing calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gel and calcium
hydroxide (CH). This reaction is responsible for the early strength development of cement.
Hydration Reaction:2Ca3SiO5+6H2O→3CaO⋅2SiO2⋅3H2O+3Ca(OH)2

5. Define standard consistency of cement paste as per 18 4031.

Standard consistency of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) is typically around 25-35% of the weight of
cement.

6. Why is the gradation of aggregate is important?

The gradation of aggregate refers to the distribution of particle sizes within a given sample. Proper
gradation is crucial in concrete and asphalt mixtures as it directly impacts workability, strength,
durability, and economy.

7. List the stages of Portland cement hydration process.

a) Initial Hydrolysis (Pre-Induction Period) – 0 to 15 minutes
b) Dormant (Induction) Period – 15 minutes to 2-4 hours
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 c) Acceleration Period – 4 to 8 hours
d) Deceleration Period – 8 to 24 hours
e) Long-Term Hydration – Ongoing for months/years
8. List out any four types of cement.
 Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC)
 Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC)
 Rapid Hardening Cement
 Sulphate Resistant Cement
 Low Heat Cement
 Quick Setting Cement
9. Classify the various types of tests conducted on coarse aggregate.
 Impact Value Test
 Abrasion Test
 Crushing Value Test
 Soundness Test
 Shape Tests (Flakiness and Elongation Index)
 Specific Gravity and Water Absorption Test
10. What is grade of cement? List any three grades of cement with their strengths.
Grade of cement represents the specific 28 days compressive strength. The following three
grades are given along with their compressive strengths.
(i) 33 Grade OPC –33 MPa
(ii) 43 Grade OPC – 43 MPa
(iii) 53 Grade OPC – 53 MPa
11. What is meant by hydration of cement?
Hydration of cement is the chemical reaction between cement and water that results in the
hardening of cement and the formation of a binding material.

12. Describe the effect of sea water in concrete.

Sea water contains dissolved salts such as sodium chloride (NaCl), magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄), and
calcium sulfate (CaSO₄), which can affect the strength, durability, and corrosion resistance of
concrete.

13. Give the pH value of water to make concrete.

The pH value of water used for making concrete should typically be between 6.0 and 8.0.

14. What are the Bouge’s chemical compound compositions of Portland cement?
Name of Compound Formula Abbreviated formula
Tricalcium silicate 3CaO.SiO2 C3S
Dicalcium silicate 2CaO.SiO2 C2S
Tricalcium aluminate 3Cao.Al2O3 C3A
Tetracalcium aluminoferrite 4CaO.Al2O3.Fe2O3 C4AF

15. Describe the importance of the quality of water used for concreting.
The quality of water used in concrete must be free from harmful impurities, maintain the desired
pH, and meet standards to ensure strength, durability, and long-term performance of the structure.

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16. Mention the test adopted to test the quality of water.
pH Test - 6.0 to 8.0. Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) Test - ≤ 2000 ppm.
Chloride Content Test - 500 mg/L for RCC, 1000 Sulphate Content Test- ≤ 400 mg/L.
mg/L for PCC.
Organic Impurities Test Alkalinity Test - ≤ 1000 mg/L.
Hardness Test - ≤ 500 mg/L. Suspended Solids Test - ≤ 2000 mg/L.
Odor and Color Test - colorless and odorless.

PART B-(13 marks)

1. Explain any four special cements with their chemical composition and applications.
2. Elaborate the various characteristics of aggregates influencing the properties of concrete.
3. Describe the tests conducted on cement to determine its quality and explain the IS specifications
for cement.
4. Explain the quality requirements for water used in concrete and discuss the effect of impurities on
concrete.
5. Illustrate the test procedure of determination of initial setting time and final setting time of
cement as per 1S 4031 guidelines. Also explain the significance of determination of same.
6. Describe the test procedure on determination of compressive strength of cement and soundness
of cement as per Indian Standard guidelines. Also explain the significance of determination of same
7. Discuss the following in details.
(a) Significance of hydration of Portland cement
(b) Mechanism of hydration
(c) Hydration of aluminates and silicates
8. Explain the terms sphericity, fiat particles and angular particles with the help of appropriate
sketches Also illustrate how the surface texture of fine aggregate influence the properties of
concrete.
9. Summarize the tests conducted on cement and explain any two in detail.
10. i) Explain hydration of cement in detail.(4)
ii) Summarize the steps to ensure the structural integrity of the concrete if water contains
impunities. (9)

UNIT II

CHEMICAL AND MINERAL ADMIXTURES

Accelerators-Retarders- Plasticisers- Super plasticizers- Water proofers - Mineral Admixtures like Fly
Ash, Silica Fume, Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag and Metakaoline -Their effects on concrete
properties.
PART A-(2 marks)

1. What is the purpose of retarder in concrete?

A retarder in concrete is an admixture used to slow down the setting time of cement.
2. Which chemical is used as accelerator in concrete?
An accelerator in concrete is an admixture that speeds up the setting time and enhances early
strength development.
a. Calcium Chloride (CaCl₂)
b. Calcium Nitrate (Ca(NO₃)₂)
c. Calcium Formate (Ca(HCOO)₂)
d. Sodium Nitrate (NaNO₃)

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3. What is the effect of fly ash on concrete?
a. Improves Workability
b. Increases Strength Over Time
c. Enhances Durability
d. Reduces Heat of Hydration
e. Improves Resistance to Freeze-Thaw Cycles
4. Mention the different types of mineral admixtures used in concrete.
Fly Ash, Silica Fume, Metakaolin, Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS or GGBFS)
5. Write the basic difference in mechanism of action of water reducing admixture and set
controllers.
Admixture Type Mechanism of Action Primary Effect
Disperses cement particles by reducing
Water-Reducing Lowers water demand, enhances
surface tension, improving workability
Admixture (WRA) strength and durability.
without increasing water content.
Set Controllers Modify the hydration process of cement Retarders slow down setting (delay
(Retarders & by either delaying or accelerating the hydration), while accelerators speed
Accelerators) chemical reactions. up setting (enhance hydration).
6. Write a few words about pozzolanic reaction.
The pozzolanic reaction is a secondary hydration reaction that occurs when pozzolanic materials
(such as fly ash, silica fume, or metakaolin) react with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) in the presence of
water to form additional calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gel.
Reaction Equation: SiO2+Ca(OH)2+H2O→C-S-H (Strength Gaining Gel)

7. State the salient features of mineral admixture in concrete production.

 Enhances long-term compressive strength by forming additional C-S-H gel through pozzolanic
reaction.
 Reduces permeability, making concrete more resistant to sulfate attack, chloride ingress, and
chemical corrosion.
 Spherical particles (e.g., fly ash) act as lubricants, reducing friction and improving concrete flow.
 Reduces Heat of Hydration Useful in mass concrete structures to prevent thermal cracking.
 Increases Sustainability Utilizes industrial byproducts (e.g., fly ash, GGBS), reducing cement
consumption and lowering CO₂ emissions.
8. How is the microstructure of concrete influenced by a superplasticizer?
The use of a superplasticizer (high-range water reducer) significantly influences the microstructure
of concrete by improving the dispersion of cement particles and reducing water content.
9. Compare mineral and chemical admixture.
Feature Mineral Admixture Chemical Admixture
Finely divided solid materials added to
Liquid or powder additives mixed with
Definition concrete to improve strength, durability,
concrete to modify its properties.
and workability.
Primarily used to enhance strength, Used to modify setting time, workability,
Function
durability, and reduce permeability. and other fresh concrete properties.
Fly ash, silica fume, ground granulated Superplasticizers, accelerators, retarders,
Examples
blast furnace slag (GGBS), metakaolin. air-entraining agents, water reducers.
Can enhance early strength (accelerators)
Effect on Enhances long-term strength by reacting
or improve workability
Strength with calcium hydroxide.
(superplasticizers).
Effect on Improves cohesion and reduces bleeding Can increase or decrease workability
Workability but may increase water demand. depending on type.

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10. Outline the role of Super Plasticizers in concrete.
Superplasticizers, also known as high-range water reducers (HRWR), are chemical admixtures used in
concrete to improve workability and reduce water content without compromising strength.
11. What is metakaoline?
Metakaoline is refined kaolin clay that is fired (calcined) under carefully controlled
conditions to create an amorphous aluminosilicate that is reactive in concrete. Like other
pozzolans (fly ash and silica fume are two common pozzolans), metakaolin reacts with the
calcium hydroxide (lime) by-products produced during cement hydration.
12. What is silica fume?
Silica fume also called micro silica is a light to dark grey or pink or white cementing
material composed of atleast 85% ultra-fine, amorohous non-crystalline spherical silicon
dioxide particles give silica fume the super pozzolanic properties.
13. How does metakaolin reduce efflorescence?
Efflorescence which appears as a whitish haze on concrete is caused when calcium
hydroxide reacts with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Because metakaolin consumes calcium
hydroxide, it reduces efflorescence.
14. How does metakaolin mitigate alkali-silica reaction?
Alkali-silica reaction is a reaction between calcium hydroxide (the alkali) and glass
(the silica) which can cause decorative glass embedment’s in concrete to pop out. Because
metakaolin consumes calcium hydroxide, it takes away the alkali and the reaction does not
occur.
15. What is the purpose of using accelerators?
 To permit earlier removal of formwork.
 Reduce the required period of curing.
 Advance the time that a structure can be placed in service.
 In the emergency repair work partially compensate for the retarding effect of low temperature
during cold weather concreting.
PART B-(13 marks)
1. What is an admixture? Enumerate any two types of chemical admixtures.
2. Describe the different types of chemical admixtures and their uses in concrete.
3. Explain the different types of Mineral Admixture added in the concrete and their effects on
properties of concrete.
4. i. Discuss the importance of water proofers in concrete and their effect on the properties of
concrete (8)
ii. Summarize the purpose of accelerators and retarders in concrete (5)
5. Discuss the process of production of silica fume and positive impact of addition of silica fume in
concrete.
6. Discuss the process of production of Ground granulated blast furnace slag and positive impact of
addition of Ground granulated blast furnace slag in concrete.
7. Describe the mechanism of action of following chemical admixtures with neat sketch.
(a) Accelerators
(b) Super plasticisers
(c)Water proofers
8. Illustrate the pozzolanic reaction and effects of ground granulated blast furnace slag and silica
fume during concrete production.
9. i) Illustrate the importance of waterproofing in concrete and their effect on properties of
concrete(7) ii) Identify the purpose of accelerators and retarders in concrete. (6)
10. Explain the effect of concrete properties while adding silica fume and GGBS.
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 UNIT III

PROPORTIONING OF CONCRETE MIX

Principles of Mix Proportioning-Properties of concrete related to Mix Design-Physical properties of
materials required for Mix Design - Design Mix and Nominal Mix-BIS Method of Mix Design - Mix
Design Examples.

PART A-(2 marks)

1. What is meant by proportioning of concrete?
Proportioning of concrete refers to the process of selecting and combining the correct amounts of
various ingredients—cement, water, fine aggregate (sand), coarse aggregate (gravel or crushed
stone), and sometimes admixtures—to achieve the desired strength, durability, and workability of
the concrete mix.
2. Distinguish between design mix and nominal mix of concrete.
Aspect Design Mix Concrete Nominal Mix Concrete
Concrete mix designed based on Concrete mix prepared using fixed
Definition laboratory tests to achieve specific proportions of ingredients without
strength and performance requirements. laboratory testing.
Fixed volumetric ratios (e.g., 1:2:4 for
Based on material properties and trial
Proportioning M15, 1:1.5:3 for M20) without specific
mixes, ensuring an optimized mix.
material testing.
Water-Cement Determined scientifically for maximum Estimated approximately, leading to
Ratio strength and durability. variations in quality.
Used in large-scale, high-strength, and Used for small-scale, non-structural, or
Use Case critical structures (e.g., bridges, general construction works (e.g., low-
skyscrapers, highways). rise buildings, footpaths).
Standards IS 10262 (India), ACI 211.1 (USA), BS EN IS 456 (India) provides guidance, but no
Followed 206 (UK) strict mix design procedure.
3. Define the principles of mix proportioning.
Strength Requirement
 The mix should achieve the required compressive strength at a specified age (usually 28
days).
 Strength is influenced by the water-cement ratio (W/C ratio) and the quality of materials.
 The mix should be easily placed, compacted, and finished without segregation or bleeding.
 Workability depends on the aggregate shape, size, water content, and use of admixtures.
 The mix should resist environmental conditions like freeze-thaw cycles, chemical attacks,
and abrasion.
 A low water-cement ratio improves durability.
4. What is air entering agent?
An air-entraining agent is a chemical admixture added to concrete to introduce microscopic air
bubbles uniformly throughout the mix. These tiny air pockets enhance the durability and workability
of concrete, especially in environments exposed to freeze-thaw cycles.
5. Write the basic assumption in design of concrete mixtures with respect to compressive strength
of concrete as per IS guidelines.
 Strength is Governed by the Water-Cement Ratio (W/C Ratio)
 Compressive Strength is a Statistical Value
 Cube Strength is Used for Design
 Fully Compacted Concrete is Assumed
 Aggregates and Cement Quality Influence Strength
 Standard Curing Conditions Apply
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6. Give the equation to find the target mean strength of concrete as per IS guidelines.
fm=fck+1.65×σ
Where:
 fm = Target mean compressive strength (MPa)
 fck = Characteristic compressive strength (MPa) (e.g., M20, M25, etc.)
 σ\sigmaσ = Standard deviation (MPa), which accounts for variations in material and mix
properties
 1.65 = Statistical factor corresponding to a 5% probability of failure

7. How is the durability is considered in a mix design of concrete?

 Low water-cement ratio
 Adequate cement content
 Proper concrete grade selection
 Sufficient cover to reinforcement
 Good curing and use of durability-enhancing admixtures

8. List out the advantages of Design mix.

Properties of all materials are used.
Cement content is low and hence the mix design is economical.

9. List out the disadvantages of nominal mix.

Nominal mix does not say which type of sand, cement, aggregate to be used.
 High cement is required which leads to high cost.

10. List the various methods of proportioning of concrete mix.

 Arbitrary proportion  Fineness modulus method
 Maximum density method  Surface area method
 Indian Road Congress, IRC 44 method  High strength concrete mix design
 Mix design based on flexural strength  ACI committee 211 method
 DOE method  Indian standard recommended method
IS: 10262-2019
11. Classify various factors affecting proportioning of concrete mixes?
Proportioning of concrete mixes is influenced by several factors that impact strength, durability,
workability, and economy.

12. Illustrate the operations involved statistical quality control?

Statistical Quality Control in concrete ensures consistency, reduces variability, and improves overall
performance. By using control charts, acceptance sampling, and statistical analysis, engineers can
maintain high-quality concrete in construction projects.

13. Evaluate the physical properties of materials required to mix design.

The physical properties of materials used in concrete significantly influence the strength, durability,
and workability of the mix. The key materials considered in mix design are cement, aggregates
(coarse and fine), water, and admixtures. Their essential physical properties are evaluated to
ensure quality and performance.
14. Define larger mean Strength.
The average strength of a batch of concrete that exceeds the specified characteristic strength to
account for variations in material properties, mixing, and environmental conditions. It ensures that
the probability of failure remains within acceptable limits.

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15. Give the reasons for the variation in compressive strength of the samples of same the mix.
The variation in compressive strength among samples of the same mix is influenced by material
inconsistencies, mixing errors, compaction methods, curing conditions, and testing procedures.

PART B-(13 marks)

1. Explain the procedure to design a concrete mix based on ACI method for construction of
residential building
2. List the types of mixing of concrete and write brief note on physical properties of materials
required for concrete mix design.
3. Explain the role of mix proportioning in producing quality concrete.
4. Compare the properties of nominal mix and design mix for M20 grade concrete.
5. Brief in detail on stepwise procedure to design concrete mixture as per IS 10262.
6. Write the various limiting values and data requirements for design of concrete mixture as per IS
10262.
7. In mix designing, why it is desirable to use a minimum amount of water? For a given slump, How
can you reduce the amount of water?
8. Briefly state the influence of maximum aggregate size on the mixing water content and cement
content of a concrete mixture with given water/cement ratio 0.5.
9. Demonstrate the role of mix proportioning in producing quality concrete.
10. Outline the design procedure of BIS method of concrete mix design.

UNIT IV

FRESH AND HARDENED PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE

Workability-Tests for workability of concrete-Slump Test and Compacting factor Test-Segregation
and Bleeding-Determination of Compressive and Flexural strength as per BIS - Properties of
Hardened concrete- Stress-strain curve for concrete-Determination of Modulus of elasticity.

PART A-(2 marks)

1. What are the factors affecting workability of concrete?
 Water Content
 Cement Content
 Aggregate Properties
 Admixtures
 Temperature & Environmental Conditions
 Mixing & Compaction
2. Outline bleeding in concrete.
Bleeding in concrete is the phenomenon where excess water rises to the surface of freshly placed
concrete due to the settlement of solid particles (cement and aggregates). It occurs due to the
inability of the mix to retain water and is a form of segregation.

3. What are the routine standard tests carried out for fresh concrete during inspection?
1. Slump Test (Workability Test)
2. Compaction Factor Test (Workability for Low Slump Concrete)
3. Flow Table Test (For High-Workability Concrete)
4. Vee-Bee Consistometer Test (For Stiff Concrete)

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4. Outline the significance of segregation and bleeding in concrete?
Segregation and bleeding are two critical issues in fresh concrete that affect its strength, durability,
and finishing quality. Their presence can lead to structural weaknesses and long-term performance
issues.
5. Write the dimensions of standard slump cone to determine the workability of concrete.
 Top Diameter: 100 mm (10 cm)
 Bottom Diameter: 200 mm (20 cm)
 Height: 300 mm (30 cm)
 Thickness: 1.5 mm to 3 mm (metal sheet)
6. Draw various types of slump of fresh concrete.

7. Recall the properties of Hardened concrete.

 Compressive Strength
 Tensile Strength
 Flexural Strength
 Modulus of Elasticity
 Durability (Resistance to Environmental Effects)
 Shrinkage & Creep
8. Comment on the term creep in concrete?
Creep in concrete is the gradual deformation (strain) over time when subjected to a sustained load.
This means concrete slowly continues to deform or shorten under constant stress, even if the
applied load remains unchanged.
9. Define durability of concrete.
Durability of concrete refers to its ability to resist weathering, chemical attack, abrasion, and other
environmental conditions while maintaining its strength and integrity over time.
10. Draw stress strain curve for concrete.

11. Why is the age factor not taken advantage of in IS456-2000?

 Standardization of Strength Measurements
 Variability in Strength Gain with Time
 Practicality in Structural Design
 Safety and Durability Considerations
 International Design Standards Follow Similar Practice

12. Define workability.

Workability is the ease with which concrete can be mixed, placed, compacted, and finished without
segregation or excessive bleeding while ensuring full compaction.

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13. What are the causes of bleeding and segregation?
Causes of Bleeding: Causes of Segregation:
 High Water-Cement Ratio (W/C)  Excess Water in the Mix
 Poorly Graded Aggregates  Improper Aggregate Grading
 Insufficient Cement Content  Poor Mixing Methods
 Over-Vibration or Over-Compaction  Excessive Vibration
 Delay in Setting Time  Improper Placing & Handling

14. State the importance of controlling workability.

Proper control of workability is essential to ensure structural integrity, durability, and ease of
construction.
15. Evaluate the reasons for shrinkage of concrete.
Shrinkage in concrete refers to the reduction in volume over time due to moisture loss, chemical
reactions, and environmental conditions. It can lead to cracking, reduced durability, and structural
issues if not properly managed.

PART B-(13 marks)

1. Summarize the procedure of compressive and flexural strength tests conducted on concrete
elements with neat sketch.
2. i) Must rate the different test made on fresh concrete and explain any one in detail(7)
ii) Examine the stress-strain curve of concrete and its behavior under different loading conditions.(6)
3. Mention the methods to measure the workability of concrete in field. Explain any two.
4. Describe the tests to be conducted for the properties of hardened concrete.
5. Discuss the different properties of hardened concrete and explain the tests used to determine
them.
6. Explain the significance of the stress-strain curve for concrete and the factors affecting it.
7. Write the test procedure to determine compressive strength and flexural strength of concrete as
per IS 516 guidelines.
8. Explain the test procedure to determine slump and compacting factor of concrete as per IS
Guidelines.
9. Briefly describe the following test with the help of nest sketch:
(i) Vee Bee consistometer
(ii) Compacting factor test
10. How flexural strength of concrete is determined as per BIS? And also discuss in detail about the
stress strain behavior of concrete in determining modulus of elascity.

UNIT V

SPECIAL CONCRETES
Light weight concretes - High strength concrete - Fibre reinforced concrete – Ferrocement - Ready
mix concrete - SIFCON - Shotcrete – Polymer concrete - High performance concrete- self compacting
concrete - Geopolymer Concrete.

PART A-(2 marks)

1. Explain light weight concrete.

Lightweight concrete is a type of concrete that has a lower density than traditional concrete, which
is typically made with ordinary aggregates like gravel or crushed stone. The reduction in weight is
achieved by using lightweight aggregates, incorporating air voids, or using certain admixtures that
reduce the overall density of the mix.

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2. Distinguish High strength and High performance concrete.

Aspect High-Strength Concrete (HSC) High-Performance Concrete (HPC)

Concrete with a compressive Concrete that exhibits enhanced
strength greater than 40 MPa (6000 properties such as durability, workability,
Definition psi), typically used for structural resistance to environmental conditions,
applications requiring high load- and long-term performance, even if
bearing capacity. strength is not the primary concern.
Overall performance, including durability,
Primary Focus Strength
permeability, and workability
Can be of any strength but focuses on
Strength
Usually 40 MPa to 100 MPa or more properties like permeability, chemical
Range
resistance, and durability

3. List the various types of polymer concrete.

 Polymer Concrete (PC)
 Polymer-Modified Concrete (PMC)
 Polymer-Impregnated Concrete (PIC)
 Sulfur-Impregnated Concrete (SIC)

4. Mention the applications of high strength concrete.

 High-Rise Buildings & Skyscrapers
 Bridges & Flyovers
 Precast Concrete Elements
 Heavy-Load Structures
 Marine and Offshore Structures
 Seismic-Resistant Structures

5. Recall the uses of polymer concrete.

 Industrial Flooring & Pavements
 Bridge Decks & Road Repairs
 Chemical & Corrosion-Resistant Structures
 Precast Concrete Elements
 Marine & Offshore Structures

6. What are the functions of shotcrete?

 Structural Support & Strengthening
 Erosion & Slope Protection
 Tunnel & Underground Construction
 Repair & Rehabilitation
 Seismic Retrofitting

7. Justify why smaller size coarse aggregates are recommended for use in high strength concrete.
 Smaller aggregates fill voids more efficiently, leading to a denser and stronger concrete
matrix.
 Higher packing density reduces porosity and permeability, enhancing durability.
 Smaller aggregates provide a larger surface area for the cement paste to bond, improving
adhesion and interfacial transition zone (ITZ) strength.
 Smaller aggregates distribute stress more evenly, reducing crack initiation and propagation.

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8. Write any two applications of fibre reinforced concrete.
 Pavements & Industrial Floors
 Tunnel Linings & Slope Stabilization

9. List some applications of light weight concrete.

 High-Rise Buildings
 Bridge Decks & Precast Elements
 Roof Insulation & Fireproofing
 Marine & Floating Structures
 Road Construction & Soil Stabilization

10. How can high flow ability be achieved for self compacting concrete?
Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) requires high flowability to ensure it can flow, spread, and fill
formwork without external vibration. High flowability is achieved by carefully adjusting the mix
proportions and using specific admixtures.

11. How do you check the homogeneity in SCC?

Using Slump Flow, V-Funnel, L-Box, and Segregation Resistance tests ensures that SCC remains well-
mixed, stable, and self-leveling.

12. Write the application of Ferro cement.

 Marine Structures
 Building Construction
 Water Tanks & Reservoirs
 Used in oil storage tanks, silos, and protective linings for chemical resistance.

13. Define High performance concrete.

High-Performance Concrete (HPC) is a type of concrete that provides superior strength, durability,
and workability compared to conventional concrete. It is designed to meet specific performance
requirements beyond normal concrete properties, such as high strength, low permeability,
resistance to harsh environments, and improved workability.

14. List the advantages of geopolymer concrete.

 Eco-friendly
 High Strength & Durability
 Chemical & Corrosion Resistance
 Enhanced Workability & Performance
 Long-Term Sustainability & Cost Savings

15. State the advantages of ready mixed concrete.

 Superior Quality & Consistency
 Time & Labor Savings
 Reduced Material Wastage
 Cost-Effective & Economical
 Improved Durability & Strength

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16. Define Ferro cement.
Ferrocement is a thin, strong, and lightweight composite material made of cement mortar
reinforced with multiple layers of closely spaced wire mesh and small-diameter steel rods. It is highly
durable, flexible, and crack-resistant, making it suitable for a variety of construction applications.

17. Write the advantages of SIFCON.

 Higher compressive, tensile, and flexural strength.
 Superior Ductility & Energy Absorption
 Enhanced Durability & Wear Resistance
 Improved Structural Integrity
 Excellent Resistance to Shock & Vibration

PART B-(13 marks)

1. Identify the types of fibers used in FRC and their effect on properties of concrete. (2)
2. What is SCC? List the various tests made on SCC. Explain any two in detail with sketches.
3. Explain the properties of fibre reinforced concrete and its applications.
4. Explain the process of manufacturing of light weight concrete and its applications.
5. Narrate the different types of special concretes and their uses in construction
6. Write the important characteristics of self-compacting concrete and its applications.
7. Illustrate the different types of lightweight concrete and its applications.
8. Demonstrate the specifications, significance, materials and mix proportions along with properties
and applications of high strength concrete and light weight concrete
9. Discuss the significant applications along with workability and durability properties of following:
i. Self-compacting concrete
ii. Fibre reinforced concrete
iii. Ready mix concrete.

PART-C (15 Marks)

1. Choose the mix proportion for M20 grade concrete exposed to mild condition by IS method using
the following details.
Design parameters:
Maximum size of aggregates: 20 mm
Degree of workability: 75 mm slump
Method of concrete placing: Normal
Shape of Coarse aggregate: Angular
Degree of quality control: Good
Data on Materials:
Type of cement: OPC Grade 43
Specific gravity of cement: 3.15
Specific gravity of Fine aggregate: 2.65
Specific gravity of Coarse aggregate: 2.7
Free surface moisture Nil for CA and FA
Fine aggregate: Conforming to grading zone II of table 4 of IS 383.

2. Construct Ferro-cement structure and explain how effective is in terms of cost.

3. Design M35 grade of concrete using IS: 10262-2019 code for the following data:
Exposure condition: severe,
Degree of workability: slump = 50 mm,
Cement: OPC (specific gravity = 3.15),
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Fine aggregate: Zone II sand (specific gravity = 2.64),
Coarse aggregate: maximum size = 20 mm (specific gravity = 2.7),
Water absorption of coarse aggregate = 1%,
Free surface moisture in sand = 2%.
Assume any data.

4. What is RMC? Explain the factors on which the property of RMC depends and any two examples
of ready-mix concrete technologies with special properties and performance.

5. Calculate the target mean strength: 40 N/mm² at 28 days. Consider the data as follow:
Maximum size of aggregate: 20mm
Degree of workability: 50-75 mm slump
Specific gravity of cement: 3.15
Specific gravity of fine aggregate: 2.6
Specific gravity of coarse aggregate: 2.7
Water absorption of fine aggregate: 1%
Water absorption of coarse aggregate: 2%
1. Maximum water-cement ratio as per IS 10262:2009: 0.35

6. Suggest and discuss a concrete that can replace cement in future to reduce carbon foot print to
address sustainable development goals.

7. Discuss in detail on various source of aggregate (river bed or quarry) that can affect the properties
of concrete.

8. Suggest some measures to increase the early age compressive strength of concrete with Class F fly
ash as cement replacement.

9. Design the mix proportion of M40 grade concrete by Indian standard method. Using the following
data: cement-PPC, mineral admixture-GGBS, aggregate -20 mm, minimum cement content -320
kg/m³, W/C ratio-0.45, slump-100 mm, exposure condition- Severe, method of placing concrete-
pumping concrete, chemical admixture-super plasticizer, degree of supervision-good, specific gravity
of cement, rice husk ash, coarse aggregate, fine aggregate -3.15, 2.20, 2.78, 2.70, water absorption
by coarse aggregate -0.5 percent and free surface moisture in fine aggregate -1.5 percent. Grading of
coarse aggregate is conforming to table 2 of IS 383 and grading of fine aggregate is falling in zone - II.

10. (i) State the importance of the following test on ordinary Portland cement and also if the water
requirement by consistency test is 30%, give the water requirement for the following test.
(a) Setting time
(b) Compressive strength
(c) Soundness.
(ii) Three samples of fine aggregate have the following properties:
Measure Sample
A B C
Wet mass (g) 521.0 522.4 523.4
Dry mass (g) 491.6 491.7 492.1
Absorption (%) 2.5 2.4 2.3
Determine in percentage:
(1) Total moisture content, and
(2) Free moisture content for each sample and the average of the three samples. (5)

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