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Effect of addition of water on concrete strength and slump

Technical Support Guide

Australia

The following table shows the effect of the addition of water on the slump and strength of a 20MPa concrete at 80mm slump.
The addition of excess water to concrete can cause the following:
a) high bleeding
b) longer setting
c) loss of strength
d) higher shrinkage
e) more cracking
f) dusting of surface
g) more wear of surface
h) lower durability

Holcim guarantees concrete supplied complies with Australian Standard AS1379. We instruct our
drivers to ensure the slump is delivered as ordered by our customers (within the allowed
tolerances) and not to add excessive water unless instructed by the customer or their
representative.
The instruction for excessive water to be added to concrete voids the guarantee by Holcim.

Need more information?

For any queries or further information, please contact your Account Manager or 13 11 88.

Please note that this information is general in nature and to be used only as a guide by designers and users of concrete. Your local Holcim representative is always
ready to assist with specialist advice tailored to the needs of the client's project.
Holcim (Australia) Pty Ltd Phone +61 2 9412 6600 Fax +61 2 9412 6601
Tower B, Level 8, 799 Pacific Highway, Chatswood, NSW, 2067, Australia www.holcim.com.au

© 2010 Holcim (Australia) Pty Ltd