17.5.2. Step 2: Selection of Water-Cement Ratio

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the water-cement ratio?

   Hint

   Think about its importance in concrete.

2. 2.

   Why is water-cement ratio important?

   Hint

   Consider how too much or too little water would impact concrete.

3. 3.

   What does the water-cement ratio influence in concrete?

   • Strength
   • Durability
   • Both Strength and Durability

   Hint

   Consider what happens when you change the ratio.

4. 4.

   True or False: A higher water-cement ratio always results in stronger concrete.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Remember the balance needed in mix designs.

5. 5.

   Given the need for a pavement with a target flexural strength of 5 MPa, and circumstances requiring excellent workability due to high temperatures, how would you go about selecting the appropriate water-cement ratio?

   Hint

   Which tables would help in this scenario?

6. 6.

   Design a concrete mix by selecting a water-cement ratio for an urban environment that often faces freeze-thaw cycles, ensuring both durability and strength.

   Hint

   What environmental factors must you keep in mind?