Factors Affecting Strength of Concrete? Guide Here!

Any building should priorities longevity and concrete strength throughout construction. The two main parameters that have a considerable impact on the strength and stability of a concrete structure are its compressive and tensile strengths.

While the aggregate and cementitious material, also known as the binder, have an impact on the compressive strength of concrete, the tensile stress of the structure is determined in part by the binding strength of the concrete itself and the reinforced bars. Environmental factors also weaken the structure and lessen concrete’s compressive strength. Since the tensile strength is somewhat dependent on the concrete materials, there is an indirect impact as well.

Look here some of the key elements that affect the concrete’s strength

1. 1. Permeability- The bonding strength of the concrete material weakens if the structure is permeable to water and various substances, such as acid rain and sulphate, which can readily pass through it. Therefore, it is important to construct the concrete in a way that minimises permeability and prevents liquid from the outside from entering the structure.
   2. Sulphate in Water- Soil and water are rich in sulphates. Calcium sulphate and sodium sulphate are generated when the sulphate in soil and water reacts with the calcium and sodium in binding material (cement). Concrete structures near the coast and in other locations crumble due to the presence of sulphur. Sulphate causes deterioration on the concrete structure if it is present in the structure.
   3. Abrasion resistance of the concrete- Abrasion is the erosion of a surface’s resisting power brought on by friction and scratches. It is totally dependent on the concrete’s longevity, exposure circumstances, aggregate characteristics, binder (the cementing substance), surface finishing, and curing technique. So, it’s essential to take the appropriate safety measures to The structure may swiftly be eroded by erosion if the aforementioned preventive measures are not followed. The reinforced material erodes the concrete cover as well because of erosion. When the reinforcing bars are firmly encased in concrete, the structure will remain stronger.
   4. Alkali-Silica Reaction- Among the expanding chemical reactions that occur with the chemicals present in the concrete mixture is the Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR). While cement paste contains potassium and sodium alkalis, concrete aggregate contains a lot of silica.

A profound understanding of concrete is crucial for civil engineers, as it forms the backbone of construction projects. Knowledge of concrete’s properties, composition, and behavior under various conditions empowers engineers to design and execute robust structures. This proficiency ensures the durability, safety, and efficiency of civil engineering endeavors.

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From

Dr. Divyashree
Associate Professor & Head
Department of Civil Engineering