Trade Journals for the Concrete Industry

Application of concrete with improved compressive strength is an unbroken trend in precast concrete as well as ready mix concrete applications. With different technical measures specific high strength requirements can be attained and high strength concrete, when properly designed and produced, is always characterized by a high degree of durability. Although a lot of different measures have been investigated in the past, it is difficult for concrete engineers and concrete producers to evaluate and decide which design approach is suitable in order to achieve the set technical requirements. The technical suitability and efficiency of concrete design factors are illustrated in this article, regarding their capability to deliver the intended technical performance. Influence of required cement and binder content in combination with the impact of the water content will be discussed. In addition the effects of different aggregate grading and types were investigated. The presented data and findings have been elaborated in a joint project between Sika Services AG, Zürich, and Holcim Technology Ltd., Holderbank.