CONCRETE

Concrete durability depends upon the degree of exposure, the concrete grade (or strength) and
the cement content. . Concrete resists weathering action, chemical attack, and abrasion while
maintaining its desired engineering properties. Different concretes require different degrees of
durability depending on the exposure environment and the properties desired. Concrete ingredients,
their proportioning, interactions between them, placing and curing practices, and the service
environment determine the ultimate durability and life of the concrete. The durability requirements
for Structural and Nonstructural concrete is based on standard ACI 318, developed by the American
Concrete Institute.

Moisture sources for concrete are both internal and external. The internal source of moisture is the
water mixed with cement that created the concrete. External sources of concrete moisture can also be
substantial and include such things as rainwater, poor plumbing, poor drainage below or at the sides of
the slab, and even the humidity in the air.
During the drying process, the concrete batch water, cement, aggregate, and other admixtures create tiny pathways within

called capillaries. Once cured, the excess water in the slab moves through these capillaries to release the moisture. Since

most concrete floors have a vapor retarder below them, this moisture must move upwards in order to escape.

STRENGTH AND DURABILITY

Many factors can affect the ultimate strength of the concrete. The first is the mix design, which sets the
ratios of the materials and water. The second is the time that passes between the initial introduction of
water and the placement of the concrete. Concrete setting is a chemical reaction that has a very definite
time component. The mixture must also be kept from segregating into its constituent parts by rotating
the drum of the mixer prior to placement.

CYLINDER TESTS

Concrete is typically mixed in one location and placed in another. Because of this, concrete must be
field-tested to be certain that the material actually placed in the building meets the design criteria.

FORMWORK

The design, fabrication, and erection of formwork is to comply with ACI 318. Formwork is necessary to
develop the required shape and dimensions of concrete members in a structure.

JOINTS

Refer to ACI 318 for provisions for joints between two successive placements of concrete.

CONCRETE COVER FOR WEATHER, MOISTURE, AND FIRE PROTECTION

ACI 318 specifies minimum concrete cover for reinforcing steel for several reasons. The cover may be to
afford fire resistance as required by the classification of the structure. The cover may be specified in
underground situations to provide protection for the reinforcing steel from moisture in the ground.

STRUCTURAL PLAIN CONCRETE

Per § 1906, it is acceptable to use plain unreinforced concrete under certain conditions, but only for
simple structures. In most circumstances the use of minimal reinforcing to address temperature changes
and shrinkage cracking is recommended practice instead of using plain concrete.