Aggregate Moisture and Absorption: Correcting Concrete Mix Water
Surface moisture in sand changes the water-cement ratio. Learn the moisture states, saturated surface-dry condition and how to correct batch weights and mix water.
0–6 mm
Concrete
Concrete and concrete structures
Aggregate makes up about three-quarters of concrete by volume; the quality of this part decides the quality of the structure.
The role of materials in Concrete and concrete structures
Aggregates usually make up 60 to 75 percent of concrete by volume and directly affect fresh workability, strength, durability and shrinkage. A change in grading or moisture changes how concrete behaves, even with a fixed mix design.
This is why concrete producers care above all about uniformity between shipments: a stable fineness modulus, controlled fines and grading that conforms to the standard.
Selection criteriaWhat matters
Three deciding criteria
- 1
Stable grading
Fine and coarse aggregate conforming to ISIRI 302 or ASTM C33 limits across every shipment.
- 2
Fine aggregate cleanliness
Controlling material finer than the 75 µm sieve and sand equivalent to protect the cement paste bond.
- 3
Rock durability
Acceptable Los Angeles abrasion and sulfate soundness results.
Related productsMaterials
Materials commonly used for Concrete and concrete structures
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0–6 mm
Washed crushed sand
Fine aggregate from crushed rock, with angular particles and controlled fines after washing.Specifications and uses
4.75–25 mm
Crushed almond gravel
The most widely used coarse aggregate for structural concrete, graded to size number 57.Specifications and uses
9.5–19 mm
Washed crushed gravel 9.5–19
Washed coarse aggregate in a narrow size range for controlled mix designs.Specifications and usesQuality and technical information
Quality and technical information
Alkali-Silica Reaction in Concrete: How to Assess Aggregate
Some siliceous aggregates react with cement alkalis and crack concrete. Learn the signs, the ASTM tests and the usual ways of managing this risk.
Industry developments
Fines in Crushed Sand: How to Control Stone Dust
Crushed sand carries stone dust, which is not the same as clay. Learn the ASTM C33 limit, the methylene blue test and how production controls fines.
Construction materials
How to Choose the Maximum Aggregate Size for Concrete
Maximum gravel size depends on member dimensions, bar spacing and placement method. Learn the common rules and how this choice affects cement use and workability.
Production and processing
Aggregate Washing: Why Is Washed Material Better?
Washing separates clay, silt and stone dust from aggregate. Learn how this stage affects concrete, what equipment is common, and how water and sludge are managed.
Construction materials
Natural Sand or Crushed Sand: Which Suits Your Project Better?
Natural and crushed sand compared on particle shape, water demand, workability and strength, with selection notes for concrete, mortar and asphalt.
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