Aggregates for Concrete (Part 1)-Aggregates for Concrete (Part 1) (PDF)

Aggregates for Concrete (Part 1) (PDF)

Pdf Summary

The ACI Education Bulletin E1-16, developed by the American Concrete Institute (ACI) Committee E-701 and published in March 2016, offers an in-depth look into the aggregates used in concrete production. The bulletin details the significant impact that aggregate properties and gradation have on both the workability and finishability of freshly placed concrete and on the compressive strength and durability of the hardened material. It discusses different properties such as aggregate gradation; fine and coarse aggregate fineness moduli; bulk densities under various moisture conditions; moisture absorption; and resistance to abrasion and impact, among others. Types of aggregates covered include normalweight, lightweight, heavyweight, blast-furnace slag, and recycled aggregates from reclaimed concrete.<br /><br />The bulletin provides examples on calculating fineness modulus and batching adjustments for aggregate absorption and moisture content. It also highlights methods for estimating average aggregate properties and the necessity of proper sampling. Furthermore, it outlines classification and properties of aggregates, offering guidance on testing methods for grading, density, moisture content, particle shape and texture, abrasion resistance, soundness under freeze-thaw cycles, and chemical stability—specifically addressing alkali-silica reactions.<br /><br />Moreover, it provides insights into blast-furnace slag and lightweight aggregates used in structural lightweight concrete and discusses the reuse of recycled concrete aggregates. The document emphasizes the importance of understanding the chemical stability of aggregates to avoid reactions detrimental to concrete performance.<br /><br />The bulletin thus serves as a comprehensive guide for professionals in concrete construction, delivering critical insights necessary for selecting and using aggregates wisely to maximize concrete performance.

Keywords

ACI Education Bulletin

aggregate properties

concrete production

fineness modulus

moisture absorption

recycled aggregates

blast-furnace slag

alkali-silica reactions

lightweight aggregates

concrete durability