Concrete Reaction

Cement chemist notation: C3S + H → C-S-H + CH
Standard notation: Ca3SiO5 + H2O → (CaO)·(SiO2)·(H2O)(gel) + Ca(OH)2
Balanced: 2Ca3SiO5 + 7H2O → 3(CaO)·2(SiO2)·4(H2O)(gel) + 3Ca(OH)2

Fine and coarse aggregates make up the bulk of a concrete mixture. Sand, natural gravel and crushed stone are mainly used for this purpose. Recycled aggregates (from construction, demolition and excavation waste) are increasingly used as partial replacements of natural aggregates, while a number of manufactured aggregates, including air-cooled blast furnace slag and bottom ash are also permitted.

Decorative stones such as quartzite, small river stones or crushed glass are sometimes added to the surface of concrete for a decorative exposed aggregate finish, popular among landscape designers.

The presence of aggregate greatly increases the robustness of concrete over and above that of cement, which otherwise is a brittle material, and thus concrete is a true composite material.

Redistribution of aggregates after compaction often creates in homogeneity due to the influence of vibration. As a result, gradients of strength may be significant.

Contact:
Claude Leeder
8310 HILLMONT
HOUSTON TX 77040
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