Yarmouk University

Al-Hijjawi Faculty for Engineering Technology

Civil Engineering Department

Materials of Construction Laboratory CE 326

Experiment Name 8&9: Mix Design (Part I & II)

Student Name:‫عبدالعزيز البليحي‬

Student Number:2021888141

Group Number:

Submitted to:

Submission Date:
*Introduction
Mix design is a fascinating field that involves the careful blending of different materials. It is an art that
requires precision and expertise to achieve the desired outcome. By combining various ingredients in
specific proportions, we can create mixtures with unique properties and characteristics. In this discussion, we
will explore the principles and techniques behind mix design, examining the factors that influence the final
result. Join us as we delve into the world of mix design and unravel the secrets of creating well-balanced and
effective mixtures.

*Objectives

In this experiment, our objective is to investigate the effect of different mix designs on the economy of the
mixture. By analyzing the cost of ingredients and considering the desired performance characteristics, we
aim to determine the most cost-effective mix design without compromising the quality or functionality of the
final product.

*Materials

Cement
Material w/c Water (kg) CA (Kg) Sand (Kg)
(kg)

quantity 0.45 10 22.24 36.92 20.68

*Apparatus

 Cylinders
 Concrete Mixer
 Molds
 Vibrating Table
 Curing Chamber
 Weighing Scale

*Procedure

Gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment.

Measure the required quantities of each ingredient using a weighing scale.

Place the ingredients into a concrete mixer and mix them thoroughly until a uniform mixture is achieved.

Transfer the mixture into molds of desired shapes and sizes.

Compact the mixture using a vibrating table to remove any air voids.

Place the molds in a curing chamber and allow the mixtures to cure for a specified period of time.

After the curing process, test the specimens to evaluate their properties
*Data & Results:
 Part I/Fresh Properties of Concrete

Slump Test Slump value = 7.5 mm , Slump Type : true slump

Weight of empty cylinder (w)= 3177.3 g

Weight of cylinder + concrete partially compacted (wp)= 13976g
Weight of cylinder + concrete fully compacted (wf)=14078 g

weight of concrete partially compacted

Compacting Factor = =0.99
weight of concrete fully compacted
Compacting Factor Test
Solution:

Degree of Workability: HIGH

Time measured , t measured = 4 seconds

Frustum of Cone dimensions:

Upper diameter (D1 = 10 cm)
Lower diameter (D2 = 20 cm)
Height = 30 cm
Volume of frustum cone (Volume before vibration)
π D1 2 D2 2 D1∗D2
= *H*{( ) +( ) +( )}
3 2 2 4
Volume before = 0.027488936 m3

Vebe Time Test Concrete Dimensions (after vibrations takes the cylindrical shape)
D= 24 cm
Height of concrete after vibration = 12.5 cm
Volume of cylinder (Volume after) = (r2)H
Volume after =0.09047

Vbefore
Time Corrected, t corrected = t measured *
Vafter

Time Corrected= 1.215

Air Content 0.3 %

Discussion:
1) What will you do if the slump was not achieved?
If the desired slump was not achieved, one possible course of action would be to gradually add small
amounts of water to the mixture while continuously remixing. This can help increase the workability and
achieve the desired slump. Care should be taken not to add excessive water, as it may negatively affect the
strength and other properties of the mixture.

2) Do we need to redesign the mix after changing the water content only? Why?
After altering the water content, it may be necessary to redesign the mix. Changing the water content
affects the water-cement ratio, which plays a crucial role in determining the strength and workability of the
mixture. Therefore, a reassessment of the mix design is essential to ensure that the desired properties and
performance requirements are still met.

3) Fill the following Table:

Degree of Workability Test Applied
Very Low Slump/compaction
Low Slump/compaction
Medium Slump/compaction
High Slump/compaction
Very High slump

4) What is the effect of air percentage in concrete?

The air content in concrete influences its workability and durability. By incorporating air, the mix becomes
more malleable, allowing for easier placement and compaction. Additionally, the entrained air acts as a
buffer during freeze-thaw cycles, reducing the risk of cracking and enhancing the overall durability of the
concrete.

5) What are air bubble types in concrete?

In concrete, various types of air bubbles can be observed. These include entrained air bubbles, which are
intentionally introduced during the mixing process to enhance workability and freeze-thaw resistance.
Additionally, there are entrapped air bubbles, which occur unintentionally due to improper compaction or
inadequate vibration during placement

6) what are the factors affecting the workability of concrete?

Several factors can impact the workability of concrete. The water-cement ratio is a critical factor, as higher
ratios increase workability. The aggregate shape and size also play a role, with smoother and well-graded
aggregates enhancing workability. Additionally, the use of chemical admixtures, such as plasticizers, can
significantly improve workability.
 Part II/Hardened Properties of Concrete
Compression Test
Cubes
(150mm*150mm*150mm)

σ (standard
Specimen Load CS AVG deviation)
# (kN) (MPa) (MPa) (MPa) COV (%)
1 293.046 13.02426667 11.5477037 1.458354467 12.62895641
2 258.988 11.51057778
3 227.436 10.10826667
Compression Test
Small Cylinders
(100mm*200mm)
Specimen Load CS AVG σ
# (kN) (MPa) (MPa) (MPa) COV (%)
1 88.108 4.4054 4.1095 0.264115903 6.426959547
2 77.952 3.8976
3 80.51 4.0255
Compression Test
Large Cylinders
(150mm*300mm)
Specimen Load CS AVG σ
# (kN) (MPa) (MPa) (MPa) COV (%)
315.894 6.372562963 0.631856984
7.019866667
1 9.915272513
2 259.082 5.757377778
3 285.320 6.340444444
Splitting Test
Cylinder (100*200mm)
Specimen Load SS AVG σ
# (kN) (MPa) (MPa) (MPa) COV (%)
1 97.688 3.109505616 3.139532849 0.235778156
2 91.741 2.920206727 7.509975768
106.465
3.388886203
3
Flexure Test
Prism (100mm*100mm*500mm)
*Assume the crack occurs between two loads
Specimen Load FS AVG σ
# (kN) (MPa) (MPa) (MPa) COV (%)
1 24.676 0.0296112 0.0314088 0.002309832
2 28.345 0.034014 7.35409282
25.501
0.0306012
3
Flexure Test
Prism (100mm*100mm*500mm)
*Assume the crack occurs between load and support
(at distance 85 mm from the edge of the prism)
 Specimen Load FS AVG σ
# (kN) (MPa) (MPa) (MPa) COV (%)
1 24.676 0.05033904 0.05339496 0.003926715
2 28.345 0.0578238 7.35409282
25.501
0.05202204
3

Discussion
1) The ratio of compressive strength from cube to that from small cylinder must be close to 1.25. Did you
get this result, higher, or lower?
higher

2) The ratio of compressive strength from large cylinder to small cylinder should be less than 1. Did you
get that? If yes, why was that?
Indeed, the ratio of compressive strength from a large cylinder to a small cylinder in concrete testing should
be less than 1. This is due to the size effect phenomenon, where the compressive strength tends to decrease
as the size of the specimen increases. The larger cylinders have a higher likelihood of containing potential
defects or weak planes, resulting in a slightly lower compressive strength compared to the smaller
cylinders.

3) Comment on modes of failure for different specimens, cubes, cylinder, and prisms?

In cube specimens, the common mode of failure is characterized by diagonal cracks that form a pattern
resembling an "X." This indicates shear failure along the diagonal planes. Cylinders tend to fail through vertical
splitting or crushing, where the cylinder fractures along its length. Prisms, on the other hand, experience a
combination of shear and flexural failure, with inclined cracks appearing on the edges.

4) What is the effect of compaction on strength gained?

Proper compaction of concrete significantly influences the strength gained during the curing process. Effective
compaction helps in reducing voids and air pockets within the mixture, ensuring better particle-to-particle contact
and interlocking. This results in a denser and more homogeneous concrete matrix, leading to improved strength
development over time.

5) What is the importance of capping process in compression strength testing for cylinders?
The capping process is crucial in compression strength testing for cylinders as it ensures uniform load distribution
during the test. By applying a smooth and level cap to the ends of the cylinder, it helps in providing a stable and
consistent surface for the load to be applied. This minimizes any localized stress concentrations and ensures
accurate and reliable strength test results.

6) What are the ideal conditions should be available in curing process for concrete specimens?

During the curing process of concrete specimens, it is essential to maintain ideal conditions to promote optimal
strength development. These conditions include maintaining a consistent temperature range, typically around 20
to 25 degrees Celsius, and a high relative humidity level of approximately 90%. Additionally, the specimens
should be protected from direct sunlight, rapid moisture loss, and extreme temperature fluctuations to ensure
proper hydration and avoid premature drying.
  Part III: Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV)
- Test specimen is Cube 150*150*150...

Reading UPV Concrete

Time (s)
Number (Km/s) Quality
1 24.9 6.02 Excellent
2 23.9 6.2 Excellent
3 25 6 Excellent
*Discussion
1) How can the concrete quality be affected by the UPV?

1. UPV testing plays a significant role in evaluating the uniformity of concrete. By

measuring the velocity of ultrasonic waves passing through the concrete, any
inconsistencies or variations in the material can be detected. Significant deviations in
UPV readings may indicate the presence of voids, cracks, or other defects, which can
compromise the overall quality and structural integrity of the concrete.

2.

2) Do you think that the UPV value could be affected by the concrete age? How?

As concrete ages, the ongoing hydration process leads to the formation of additional
hydration products and the gradual development of strength. This evolution of the
concrete microstructure can affect the UPV value. Generally, with increasing age, the
UPV value tends to increase due to the improved interconnectivity and densification
of the concrete matrix.

3) Mention five methods are used for non-destructive testing of concrete.

1. Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) Testing

2. Rebound Hammer Test (Schmidt Hammer)

3. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

4. Impact Echo Test

5. Electrical Resistivity Measurement

_______________________________________________________________________________________

*Conclusion
In summary, the mix design experiment proved to be a valuable exercise in understanding
the intricate relationship between various concrete components. By carefully adjusting
the proportions of cement, aggregates, and water, we were able to achieve a well-balanced
concrete mix with desired workability and strength characteristics. The results
highlighted the importance of considering factors such as aggregate gradation, water-
cement ratio, and admixture dosage to optimize the mix design. This experiment provided
valuable insights into the practical aspects of concrete production and emphasized the
need for careful analysis and testing to ensure the desired concrete properties are
achieved.