Chapter 3. Properties of aggregate

Because at least three-quarters of the volume of concrete is occupied by aggregate, it is not surprising that its quality is of considerable importance. Not only may the aggregate limit the strength of concrete, as aggregate with undesirable properties cannot produce strong concrete, but the properties of aggregate greatly affect the durability and structural performance of concrete.

Aggregate was originally viewed as an inert material dispersed throughout the cement paste largely for economic reasons. It is possible, however, to take an opposite view and to look on aggregate as a building material connected into a cohesive whole by means of the cement paste, in a manner similar to masonry construction. In fact, ...

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