Concrete Technology Part 2: Mix Design TSYH 3231

Upon successful completion, the student will be able to:

Module 1 - Selecting Design Criteria

• Determine from CSA A23.1, Section 14, basic requirements for a specific concrete mix application.
• Relate the effects of placement method on the mix design.
• Relate the effects of different admixture on mix design.
• Relate the effects of different cements on different mix design applications.

Module 2 - Absolute Volume Method

• Calculate a balance concrete mix which will satisfy project requirements.
• Perform dry rod unit weight tests to determine maximum aggregate densities.
• Determine the yield and aggregate water adjustments for a particular mix.
• Determine the yield and aggregate water adjustments for a particular mix.
• Explain other methods of mix design.

Module 3-- Trial Batching

• Measure out the ingredients required for a trial batch of a particular mix design.
• Perform the trial batch test accurately and determine the mix properties.
• Assess the performance of the trial mix as to workability, bleeding, finishing and cohesiveness.
• Calculate adjustments to the mix dependent on the performance of the mix.

Module 4 - Admixtures

• Describe the uses of the five chemical admixture groups.
• Recommend the adjustments that should be made to the basic mix design when any admixture is used.
• Recognize conditions in which certain admixtures should not be used.

Module 5 - Extreme Weather Concreting, Mix Adjustments

• Recognize the extremes of weather which will necessitate a redesign of a basic concrete mix prepared for normal conditions.
• Recommend precautionary measures which should be taken to protect stockpiles of aggregates and cement against freezing and hot, dry conditions.
• Propose procedures that should be adopted to alter the water temperature in the mix and adjustments that should be made in the quantity used.
• Recommend the use of appropriate admixtures to offset the effect of weather extremes.

Module 6 - Special Concretes

• Discuss the mix requirement for the following types of concrete:
• Roller-compacted concrete
• Underwater and marine structural concrete
• Shotcrete (gunite)
• Concrete for repairing and patching.
• Recommend suitable additives, admixtures and water contents for these different types of concrete.

Effective as of Fall 2003