Aci 211.3R - 02

ACI 211.
3R-02
Guide for Selecting Proportions

for No-Slump Concrete
Reported by ACI Committee 211
Michael J. Boyle
Chair
Terrence E. Arnold* Michael R. Gardner Dipak T. Parekh
William L. Barringer John T. Guthrie James S. Pierce*
Muhammed P. Basheer G. Terry Harris, Sr. Michael F. Pistilli
Casimir Bognacki Godfrey A. Holmstrom Steven A. Ragan*
Gary L. Brenno Richard D. Hill Royce J. Rhoads
Marshall L. Brown David L. Hollingsworth John P. Ries
Ramon L. Carrasquillo George W. Hollon G. Michael Robinson
James E. Cook Said Iravani Donald L. Schlegel*
John F. Cook Tarif M. Jaber James M. Shilstone
Raymond A. Cook Robert S. Jenkins Ava Shypula
David A. Crocker Frank A. Kozeliski Jeffrey F. Speck
D. Gene Daniel Colin L. Lobo William X. Sypher
Francois de Larrard Mark D. Luther Stanley J. Virgalitte
Donald E. Dixon Howard P. Lux Woodward L. Vogt
Calvin L. Dodl Gart R. Mass* Dean J. White, II
Darrell F. Elliot Ed T. McGuire Richard M. Wing
*
Members of subcommittee who prepared revisions.
Chair of subcommittee C.
The subcommittee thanks Gary Knight and Tom Holm for providing assistance for some of the graphics in this report.
This guide is intended as a supplement to ACI 211.1. A procedure is pervious concrete for drainage purposes. Examples are provided as an aid
presented for proportioning concrete that has slumps in the range of in calculating proportions for these specialty applications.
zero to 25 mm (1 in.) and consistencies below this range, for aggregates up
to 75 mm (3 in.) maximum size. Suitable equipment for measuring such
Keywords: durability; mixture proportioning; no-slump concrete; roller-
consistencies is described. Tables and charts similar to those in ACI 211.1
compacted concrete; slump test; water-cementitious materials ratio.
are provided which, along with laboratory tests on physical properties of fine
and coarse aggregate, yield information for obtaining concrete proportions
for a trial mixture. CONTENTS
Chapter 1Scope and limits, p. 211.3R-2
This document also includes appendices on proportioning mixtures for
roller-compacted concrete, concrete roof tile, concrete masonry units, and Chapter 2Preliminary considerations, p. 211.3R-2
2.1General
ACI Committee Reports, Guides, Standard Practices, 2.2Methods for measuring consistency
and Commentaries are intended for guidance in planning, 2.3Mixing water requirement
designing, executing, and inspecting construction. This
document is intended for the use of individuals who are Chapter 3Selecting proportions, p. 211.3R-3
competent to evaluate the significance and limitations of 3.1General
its content and recommendations and who will accept re-
3.2Slump and maximum-size aggregate
sponsibility for the application of the material it contains.
3.3Estimating water and aggregate grading requirements
The American Concrete Institute disclaims any and all re-
sponsibility for the stated principles. The Institute shall 3.4Selecting water-cementitious materials ratio
not be liable for any loss or damage arising therefrom. 3.5Estimate of coarse aggregate quantity
Reference to this document shall not be made in con-
tract documents. If items found in this document are de- ACI 211.3R-02 supersedes ACI 211.3R-97 and became effective January 11, 2002.
sired by the Architect/Engineer to be a part of the contract Copyright 2002, American Concrete Institute.
All rights reserved including rights of reproduction and use in any form or by any
documents, they shall be restated in mandatory language means, including the making of copies by any photo process, or by electronic or
mechanical device, printed, written, or oral, or recording for sound or visual reproduc-
for incorporation by the Architect/Engineer. tion or for use in any knowledge or retrieval system or device, unless permission in
writing is obtained from the copyright proprietors.
211.3R-1
211.3R-2 ACI COMMITTEE REPORT
Chapter 4Proportioning computations (SI units), Table 2.1Comparison of consistency

p. 211.3R-7 measurements for slump and Vebe apparatus
4.1General proportioning criteria Consistency description Slump, mm Slump, in. Vebe, s
4.2Example of proportioning computations Extremely dry 32 to 18
4.3Batching quantities for production-size batching Very stiff 18 to 10
4.4Adjustment of trial mixture Stiff 0 to 25 0 to 1 10 to 5
Stiff plastic 25 to 75 1 to 3 5 to 3
Chapter 5References, p. 211.3R-9 Plastic 75 to 125 3 to 5 3 to 0
5.1Referenced standards and reports
Very plastic 125 to 190 5 to 7-1/2
5.2Cited references
Appendix 1Proportioning computations (inch- property in quantitative terms. It is usually expedient to use
pound units), p. 211.3R-10 some type of consistency measurement as an index to work-
ability. Consistency may be defined as the relative ability of
Appendix 2Laboratory tests, p. 211.3R-11 freshly mixed concrete to flow. The slump test is the most
familiar test method for consistency and is the basis for
Appendix 3Roller-compacted concrete mixture
proportioning, p. 211.3R-13 the measurement of consistency under ACI 211.1.
No-slump concrete will have poor workability if consoli-
Appendix 4Concrete roof tile mixture dated by hand-rodding. If vibration is used, however, such
proportioning, p. 211.3R-20 concrete might be considered to have adequate workability.
The range of workable mixtures can therefore be widened by
Appendix 5Concrete masonry unit mixture consolidation techniques that impart greater energy into the
proportioning, p. 211.3R-21
mass to be consolidated. The Vebe apparatus,1,2 the compacting
Appendix 6Pervious concrete mixture factor apparatus,3 the modified compaction test, and the
proportioning, p. 211.3R-24 Thaulow drop table4 are laboratory devices that can provide a
useful measure of consistency for concrete mixtures with
CHAPTER 1SCOPE AND LIMITS less than 25 mm (1 in.) slump. Of the three consistency
ACI 211.1 provides methods for proportioning concrete measurements, the Vebe apparatus is frequently used today in
with slumps greater than 25 mm (1 in.) as measured by roller-compacted concrete and will be referred to in this guide.
ASTM C 143/C 143M. This guide is an extension of ACI The Vebe test is described in Appendix 2. If none of these
211.1 and addresses the proportioning of concrete having methods are available, consolidation of the trial mixture un-
slump in the range of zero to 25 mm (1 in.). der actual placing conditions in the field or laboratory will,
The paired values stated in inch-pound and SI units are the of necessity, serve as a means for determining whether the
results of conversions that reflect the intended degree of consistency and workability are adequate. Suitable work-
accuracy. Each system is used independently of the other ability is often based on visual judgement for machine-made
in the examples. Combining values from the two systems precast concrete products.
may result in nonconformance with this guide. A comparison of Vebe test results with the conventional
In addition to the general discussion on proportioning slump test is shown in Table 2.1. Note that the Vebe test
no-slump concrete, this guide includes proportioning proce- can provide a measure of consistency in mixtures termed
dures for these classes of no-slump concrete: roller-compacted extremely dry. Vebe time at compaction is influenced
concrete (Appendix 3); roof tiles (Appendix 4); concrete by other factors such as moisture condition of aggregates,
masonry units (CMU) (Appendix 5); and pervious concrete time interval after mixing, and climatic conditions.
(Appendix 6).
2.3Mixing water requirement
CHAPTER 2PRELIMINARY CONSIDERATIONS In ACI 211.1, approximate relative mixing water require-
2.1General
The general comments contained in ACI 211.1 are perti- ments are given for concrete conforming to the consistency
nent to the procedures discussed in this guide. The descrip- descriptions of stiff plastic, plastic, and very plastic, as
tion of the constituent materials of concrete, the differences shown in Table 2.2 of this guide. Considering the water
in proportioning the ingredients, and the need for knowledge requirement for the 75 to 100 mm (3 to 4 in.) slump as
of the physical properties of the aggregate and cementitious 100%, the relative water contents for those three consistencies
materials apply equally to this guide. The level of overdesign are 92, 100, and 106%, respectively. Thaulow5 extended this
indicated in ACI 301 and ACI 318/318R should be applied concept of relative water contents to include stiffer mixtures,
to the compressive strength used for proportioning. as shown in Table 2.2.
Figure 2.1 and 2.2 have been prepared based on the results
2.2Methods for measuring consistency from a series of laboratory tests in which the average air
Workability is the property of concrete that determines the contents were as indicated in Figure 2.3. These tests show
ease with which it can be mixed, placed, consolidated, and that the factors in Table 2.2 need to be applied to the quantities
finished. No single test is available that will measure this given in ACI 211.1 to obtain the approximate water content for
GUIDE FOR SELECTING PROPORTIONS FOR NO-SLUMP CONCRETE 211.3R-3
Fig. 2.1Approximate mixing water requirements for different consistencies and maximum-size
aggregate for nonair-entrained concrete.
Fig. 2.2Approximate mixing water requirements for different consistencies and maximum-size
aggregate for air-entrained concrete.
the six consistency designations. Approximate relative mixing effectiveness of mixing, chemical admixtures, and the method
water requirements are given in kg/m3 (lb/yd3) using the of consolidation. With respect to mixing, for example,
relative water contents shown by Thaulow 5 for the stiff, spiral-blade and pan-type mixers are more effective for
very stiff, and extremely dry consistencies. For a given no-slump concretes than are rotating-drum mixers.
combination of materials, a number of factors will affect
the actual mixing water requirement and can result in a CHAPTER 3SELECTING PROPORTIONS
considerable difference from the values shown in Fig. 2.1 and 3.1General
2.2. These factors include particle shape and grading of the Cementitious materials include the combined mass of
aggregate, air content and temperature of the concrete, the cement, natural pozzolans, fly ash, ground granulated-
Fig. 2.3Air content of concrete mixtures for different maximum size aggregate.
Table 2.2Approximate relative water content for stiffer consistencies, are included in Fig. 2.1 and 2.2. Consis-
different consistencies tencies in the very-stiff range and drier are often used in
Approximate relative water content, % the fabrication of various precast elements such as, pipe,
Consistency description Thaulow5 Table 6.3.3, ACI 211.1 prestressed members, CMU, and roof tiles. Also, roller-com-
Extremely dry 78 pacted and pervious concretes fall into the no-slump categories
Very stiff 83 as discussed in Appendix 3 through 6. There is no apparent jus-
Stiff 88 tification for setting limits for maximum and minimum con-
Stiff plastic 93 92 sistency in the manufacture of these materials because the
Plastic 100 100 optimum consistency is highly dependent on the equipment,
Very plastic 106 106 production methods, and materials used. It is further recom-
mended that, wherever possible, the consistencies used
blast-furnace slag (GGBFS), and silica fume that are used should be in the range of very stiff or drier, because the
in the mixture. use of these drier consistencies that are adequately con-
As recommended in ACI 211.1, concrete should be placed solidated will result in improved quality and a more eco-
using the minimum quantity of mixing water consistent with nomical product.
mixing, placing, consolidating, and finishing requirements The nominal maximum size of the aggregate to be selected
because this will have a favorable influence on strength, for a particular type of construction is dictated primarily by
durability, and other physical properties. The major consider- consideration of both the minimum dimension of a section
ations in selecting proportions apply equally well to no-slump and the minimum clear spacing between reinforcing bars,
concretes as to the more plastic mixtures. These consider- prestressing tendons, ducts for post-tensioning tendons, or
ations are: other embedded items. The largest permissible maximum-size
Adequate durability in accordance with ACI 201.2R to aggregate should be used; however, this does not preclude the
satisfactorily withstand the weather and other use of smaller sizes if they are available and their use would
destructive agents to which it may be exposed; result in equal or greater strength with no detriment to other
Strength required to withstand the design loads with the concrete properties.
required margin of safety; For reinforced, precast concrete products such as pipe, the
The largest maximum-size aggregate consistent with maximum coarse aggregate size is generally 19 mm (3/4 in.)
economic availability, satisfactory placement, and or less.
concrete strength;
The stiffest consistency that can be efficiently consoli- 3.3Estimating water and aggregate-grading
dated; and requirements
Member geometry. The quantity of water per unit volume of concrete required
to produce a mixture of the desired consistency is influenced
3.2Slump and maximum-size aggregate by the maximum size, particle shape, grading of the aggregate,
ACI 211.1 contains recommendations for consistencies in and the amount of entrained air. It is relatively unaffected by
the range of stiff plastic to very plastic. These, as well as the quantity of cementitious material below about 360 to
in the range of 0.25 to 0.40 or higher. Examples of such

adjustments are given further in this guide.
For machine-made, precast concrete products such as
pipes and CMU, the general rule is to use as much water as
the product will tolerate without slumping or cracking when
the forms are stripped.
3.4Selecting water-cementitious materials ratio

The selection of w/cm depends on the required strength.
Figure 3.1 provides initial information for w/cm. The
compressive strengths are for 150 x 300 mm (6 x 12 in.)
cylinders, prepared in accordance with ASTM C 192, sub-
jected to standard moist curing, and tested at 28 days in
accordance with ASTM C 39 for the various ratios. The
required w/cm to achieve a desired strength depends on
whether the concrete is air-entrained.
Using the maximum permissible w/cm from Fig. 3.1 and
the approximate mixing water requirement from Fig. 2.1 and
2.2, the cementitious material content can be calculated by
dividing the mass of water needed for mixing by the w/cm. If
the specifications for the job contain a minimum cementitious
material content requirement, the corresponding w/cm for
estimating strength can be computed by dividing the mass
of water by the mass of the cementitious material. The lowest of
the three w/cmsthose for durability, strength, or cementitious
Fig. 3.1Relationships between water-cementitious materials material contentshould be selected for calculating concrete
ration and compressive strength of concrete. proportions.
Air-entraining admixtures or air-entraining cements can
0 3 (610 to 660 lb/yd3). In mixtures richer than these,
3 9 kg/m be beneficial in ensuring durable concrete in addition to pro-
mixing water requirements can increase significantly as viding other advantages, such as reduction in the mixture
cementitious materials contents are increased. Acceptable harshness with no increase in water. Air-entrained concrete
aggregate gradings are presented in ASTM C 33 and should be used when the concrete products are expected to
AASHTO M 6 and M 80. be exposed to frequent cycles of freezing and thawing in a
moist, critically saturated condition. ASTM C 666 testing
Aggregate grading is an important parameter in selecting
before construction is recommended to assess resistance to
proportions for concrete in machine-made precast products
freezing-and-thawing characteristics of the no-slump concrete.
such as pipes, CMU, roof tile, manholes, and prestressed If these no-slump concrete mixtures may be exposed to
products. Forms for these products are removed immediately deicer salts, they should also be tested in accordance with
after the concrete is placed and consolidated, or the concrete ASTM C 666.
is placed by an extrusion process. In either case, the concrete Figure 3.1 is based on the air contents shown in Fig. 2.3.
has no external support immediately after placement and In Fig. 3.1 at equal w/cm, the strengths for the air-entrained
consolidation; therefore, the fresh concrete mixture should concrete are approximately 20% lower than for the non-
be cohesive enough to retain its shape after consolidation. air-entrained concrete. These differences may not be as great
Cohesiveness is achieved by providing sufficient fines in the in the no-slump mixtures because the volume of entrained air
mixtures. Some of these fines can be obtained by careful in these mixtures using an air-entraining cement, or the usual
selection of the fine aggregate gradings. Pozzolans, such amount of air-entraining admixture per unit of cementitious
as fly ash, have also been used to increase cohesiveness. In material, will be reduced significantly with practically no
some cases, the desired cohesiveness can be improved by loss in resistance to freezing and thawing and density. In
increasing the cementitious materials content. This approach is addition, when cementitious material content and consistency
are constant, the differences in strength are partially or entirely
not recommended, however, because of negative effects
offset by reduction of mixing water requirements that result
of excessive cementitious materials such as greater heat
from air entrainment.
of hydration and drying shrinkage.
The required average strength necessary to ensure the
The quantities of water shown in Fig. 2.1 and 2.2 of this strength specified for a particular job depends on the degree
guide are sufficiently accurate for preliminary estimates of of control over all operations involved in the production and
proportions. Actual water requirements need to be estab- testing of the concrete. See ACI 214 for a complete guide. If
lished in laboratory trials and verified by field tests. This flexural strength is a requirement rather than compressive
should result in water-cementitious materials ratios (w/cm) strength, the relationship between w/cm and flexural
Fig. 3.2Volume of coarse aggregate per unit volume of concrete of plastic consistency
(75 to 125 mm [3 to 5 in.] slump).
Fig. 3.3Volume correction factors for dry-rodded coarse aggregate for concrete of
different consistencies.
strength should be determined by laboratory tests using intended work with later adjustment in the field or plant.
the job materials. If such data are not available or cannot be obtained, Fig. 3.2
provides a good estimate of the amount of coarse aggregate
3.5Estimate of coarse aggregate quantity for various concrete having a degree of workability suitable
The largest quantity of coarse aggregate per unit volume for usual reinforced concrete construction (approximately 75 to
of concrete should be used and be consistent with adequate 100 mm [3 to 4 in.] slump). These values of dry-rodded
placeability. For the purpose of this document, placeability volume of coarse aggregate per unit volume of concrete
is defined as the ability to adequately consolidate the mixture are based on established empirical relationships for aggre-
with the minimum of physical and mechanical time and gates graded within conventional limits. Changes in the
effort. For a given aggregate, the amount of mixing water consistency of the concrete can be affected by changing
required will then be at a minimum and strength at a maximum. the amount of coarse aggregate per unit volume of concrete.
This quantity of coarse aggregate can best be determined As greater amounts of coarse aggregate per unit volume are
from laboratory investigations using the materials for the used, the consistency will decrease. For the very plastic and
plastic consistencies, the volume of coarse aggregate per unit cycles of freezing and thawing. Structural considerations
volume of concrete is essentially unchanged from that shown in require it to have a design compressive strength of 30 MPa at
Fig. 3.2. For the stiffer consistenciesthose requiring vibra- 28 days. From previous experience in the plant producing
tionthe amount of coarse aggregate that can be accommodat- similar products, the expected coefficient of variation of
ed increases rather sharply in relation to the amount of fine strengths is 10%. It is further required that no more than one
aggregate required. Figure 3.3 shows some typical values of the test in 10 will fall below the design strength of 30 MPa at
volume of coarse aggregate per unit volume of concrete for 28 days. From Fig. 4.1(a) of ACI 214, the required average
different consistencies, expressed as a percentage of the strength at 28 days should be 30 MPa 1.15, or 35 MPa. The
values shown in Fig. 3.2. The information contained in these size of the section and spacing of reinforcement are such that
two figures provides a basis for selecting an appropriate amount a nominal maximum-size coarse aggregate of 40 mm, graded
of coarse aggregate for the first trial mixture. Adjustments in to 4.75 mm, can be used and is locally available. Heavy internal
this amount will probably be necessary in the field or and external vibration are available to achieve consolidation,
plant operation. enabling the use of very stiff concrete. The dry-rodded density
In precast concrete products where cohesiveness is required of the coarse aggregate is 1600 kg/m3. Because the exposure
to retain the concrete shape after the forms are stripped, is severe, air-entrained concrete will be used. The propor-
the volume of coarse aggregate can be reduced somewhat tions may be computed as follows:
from the values indicated in Fig. 3.2. The degree of cohesive- From Fig. 3.1, the w/cm required to produce an average
ness required depends on the particular process used to make 28-day strength of 35 MPa in air-entrained concrete is
the concrete product. Uniformly graded aggregate is impor- shown to be approximately 0.40 by mass.
tant in precast concrete pipe; therefore, blends of two or
The approximate quantity of mixing water needed to pro-
more coarse aggregates are frequently used.
duce a consistency in the very stiff range in air-entrained
Concrete of comparable workability can be expected with
concrete made with 40 mm nominal maximum-size aggre-
aggregates of comparable size, shape, and grading when a
gate is 130 kg/m3 (Fig. 2.2). In Fig. 2.3, the required air con-
given dry-rodded volume of coarse aggregate per unit volume
tent for the more plastic mixture is indicated to be 4.5%,
of concrete is used. In the case of different types of aggregates,
which will be produced by using an air-entraining admix-
particularly those with different particle shapes, the use of a
ture. An air-entraining admixture, when added at the mixer
fixed dry-rodded volume of coarse aggregate automatically
as liquid, should be included as part of the mixing water. The
makes allowance for differences in mortar requirements as
note to the figure calls attention to the lower air contents
reflected by void content of the coarse aggregate. For example,
angular aggregates have a higher void content, and therefore, entrained in stiffer mixtures. For this concrete, assume the
require more mortar than rounded aggregates. air content to be 3.0% when the suggestions in the note are
followed.
This aggregate-estimating procedure does not reflect
variations in grading of coarse aggregates within different From the preceding two paragraphs, it can be seen that the
maximum-size limits, except as they are reflected in per- required cementitious material is 130/0.40 = 325 kg/m3.
centages of voids. For coarse aggregates falling within the Only portland cement will be used.
limits of conventional grading specifications, this omission Figure 3.2, with a nominal maximum-size aggregate of 40
probably has little importance. The optimum dry-rodded mm and a fineness modulus of sand of 2.80, 0.71 m3 of
volume of coarse aggregate per unit volume of concrete coarse aggregate on a dry-rodded basis, would be required in
depends on its maximum size and the fineness modulus of each cubic meter of concrete having a slump of about 75 to
the fine aggregate as indicated in Fig. 3.2. 100 mm.
In Fig. 3.3, for the very stiff consistency desired, the
CHAPTER 4PROPORTIONING COMPUTATIONS amount of coarse aggregate should be 125% of that for the
(SI UNITS) plastic consistency, or 0.71 1.25 = 0.89 m3. The quantity in
4.1General proportioning criteria a cubic meter will be 0.89 m3, which in this case is 0.89 m3
Computation of proportions will be explained by one
1600 kg/m3 = 1424 kg.
example. The following criteria are assumed:
The cement specific gravity is 3.15; With the quantities of cement, water, coarse aggregate,
and air established, the sand content is calculated as follows:
Coarse and fine aggregates in each case are of satisfac-
tory quality and are graded within limits of generally Solid volume 325
accepted specifications such as ASTM C 33 and C 331; = ---------------------------- = 0.103 m3
of cement 3.15 1000
The coarse aggregate has a specific gravity, bulk oven
dry, of 2.68, and an absorption of 0.5%; and 130
Volume of water = ------------ = 0.130 m3
The fine aggregate has a specific gravity, bulk oven dry, of 1000
2.64, an absorption of 0.7%, and fineness modulus of 2.80.
Solid volume of 1424
= ---------------------------- = 0.531 m3
4.2Example of proportioning computations coarse aggregate 2.68 1000
Concrete is required for an extruded product in northern
Volume of air = 1 0.030 = 0.030 m3
France that will be exposed to severe weather with frequent
Table 4.1Comparison between computed batch meter of concrete. The actual quantities used during production
quantities and those used in production will vary because it depends on the moisture contents of the
Batch quantities of concrete per cubic meter stockpiled aggregates which will vary.
Ingredients
Computed, kg Used in production, kg The preceding trial mixture computations provide batch
Cement 325 325 quantities for each ingredient of the mixture per cubic meter
Net mixing water 130 130 of concrete. It is seldom desirable or possible to mix concrete
Sand 544 (oven dry) 571 (moist) in exactly 1 m3 batches. It is therefore necessary to convert
Coarse aggregate 1424 (oven dry) 1438 (moist) these quantities in proportion to the batch size to be used. Let
Water absorbed 11 it be assumed that a 0.55 m3 capacity mixer is available.
Excess water 30 Then to produce a batch of the desired size and maintain the
Total 2434 2434 same proportions, the cubic meter batch quantities of all ingre-
Water added at mixer 141 100 dients should be reduced quantities to the following quanti-
ties:
Cement = 0.55 325 = 179 kg
Total volume of Sand (moist) = 0.55 571 = 314 kg
ingredients = 0.794 m3 Coarse aggregate (moist) = 0.55 1438 = 791 kg
except sand Water to be added = 0.55 100 = 55 kg
Solid volume of
= 1 0.794 = 0.206 m3 4.4Adjustment of trial mixture
sand required
The estimate of total water requirement given in Fig. 2.1
Required mass of and 2.2 may understate the water required. In such cases, the
= 0.206 2.64 1000 = 544 kg
oven-dry sand amount of cementitious materials should be increased to
Water absorbed maintain the w/cm, unless otherwise indicated by laboratory
( 544 0.007 ) + tests. This adjustment will be illustrated by assuming that the
by oven-dry = = 11 kg
aggregates ( 1424 0.005 ) concrete for the example was found in the trial batch to require
135 kg of mixing water instead of 130 kg. Consequently, the
The estimated batch quantities per cubic meter of concrete cementitious materials content should be increased from 325
are: to (135/130) 325 = 338 kg/m3 and the batch quantities
Cement = 325 kg recomputed accordingly.
Water = 141 kg (130 + 11) Sometimes less water than indicated in Fig. 2.1 and 2.2
Sand, oven-dry = 544 kg may be required, but it is recommended that no adjustment
Coarse aggregate, oven-dry = 1424 kg be made in the amount of cementitious materials for the
Air-entraining admixture = (as required) for 3% air batch in progress. Strength results may warrant additional
batches with less cementitious materials. Adjustment in
4.3Batching quantities for production-size batch quantities is necessary to compensate for the loss of
batching volume due to the reduced water. This is done by increas-
For the sake of convenience in making trial mixture com- ing the solid volume of sand in an amount equal to the vol-
putations, the aggregates have been assumed to be in an ume of the reduction in water. For example, assume that
oven-dry state. Under production conditions, they generally 125 kg of water is required instead of 130 kg for the con-
will be moist and the quantities to be batched into the mixer crete of the example. Then 125/1000 is substituted for
should be adjusted accordingly. 130/1000 in computing the volume of water in the batch.
With the batch quantities determined in the example, This results in 0.005 m 3 less water; therefore, the solid vol-
assume that tests show the sand to contain 5.0% and the ume of sand becomes 0.206 + 0.005 = 0.211 m3.
coarse aggregate 1.0% total moisture. Because the quantity The percentage of air in some no-slump concrete that can
of oven-dry sand required was 544 kg, the amount of moist be consolidated in the container by vibration can be measured
sand to be weighed out should be 544 kg 1.05 = 571 kg. directly with an air meter (ASTM C 231) or it can be computed
Similarly, the amount of moist, coarse aggregate should be gravimetrically from measurement of the fresh concrete density
1424 1.01 = 1438 kg. in accordance with ASTM C 138. For any given set of condi-
The free water in the aggregates, in excess of their absorp- tions and materials, the amount of air entrained is approxi-
tion, should be considered as part of the mixing water. Because mately proportional to the quantity of air-entraining
the absorption of sand is 0.7%, the amount of free water which admixture used. Increasing the cementitious materials
it contains is 5.0 0.7 = 4.3%. The free water in the coarse content or the fine fraction of the sand, decreasing slump,
aggregate is 1.0 0.5 = 0.5%. Therefore, the mixing water or raising the temperature of the concrete usually decreases the
contributed by the sand is 0.043 544 = 23 kg and that amount of air entrained for a given amount of admixture. The
contributed by the coarse aggregate is 0.005 1424 = 7 kg. The grading and particle shape of aggregate also have an effect
quantity of mixing water to be added is 130 (23 + 7) = 100 kg. on the amount of entrained air. The job mixture should not
Table 4.1 shows a comparison between the computed batch be adjusted for minor fluctuations in w/cm or air content. A
quantities and those to be used in the field for each cubic variation in w/cm of 0.02, 0.38 to 0.42 in the above example,
resulting from maintaining a constant consistency, is considered C 231 Standard Test Method for Air Content of Freshly
normal for no-slump concrete where compactability and Mixed Concrete by the Pressure Method
densification respond better to target values for w/cm. A C 331 Standard Specification for Lightweight Aggregate
variation of 1% in air content is also considered normal. for Concrete Masonry Units
This variation in air content will be smaller in the drier mixtures. C 566 Standard Test Method for Total Moisture Content
of Aggregate by Drying
CHAPTER 5REFERENCES C 618 Standard Specification for Fly Ash and Raw or
5.1Referenced standards and reports Calcined Natural Pozzolan for Use as a Mineral
The standards of the various standards producing organi-
Admixture in Portland Cement Concrete
zations applicable to this document are listed below with
C 666 Standard Test Method for Resistance of Concrete
their serial designations. Since some of these standards are
to Rapid Freezing and Thawing
revised frequently, generally in minor details only, the user
C 1170 Standard Test Methods for Determining Consis-
of this document should contact the sponsoring group, if it is
tency and Density of Roller-Compacted Concrete
desired to refer to the latest document.
Using a Vibrating Table
C 1176 Practice for Making Roller-Compacted Concrete
American Association of State Highway and Transportation
in Cylinder Molds Using a Vibrating Table
Officials (AASHTO)
D 1557 Test Method for Laboratory Compaction
M6 Fine Aggregate for Portland Cement Concrete
Characteristics of Soil Using Modified Effort
M 80 Coarse Aggregate for Portland Cement Concrete
SI 10 Use of the International System of Units (SI):
The Modern Metric System
American Concrete Institute (ACI)
116R Cement and Concrete Terminology
201.2R Guide to Durable Concrete The above publications may be obtained from the following
211.1 Standard Practice for Selecting Proportions for organizations:
Normal, Heavyweight and Mass Concrete
207.1R Mass Concrete American Association of State Highway and Transportation
207.5R Roller-Compacted Mass Concrete Officials
214 Recommended Practice for Evaluation of 444 N. Capitol St. NW Suite 225
Strength Test Results of Concrete Washington, DC 20001
301 Specifications for Structural Concrete for
Buildings American Concrete Institute
318/318R Building Code Requirements for Structural P.O. Box 9094
Concrete and Commentary Farmington Hills, MI 48333-9094
325.10R State-of-the-Art Report on Roller-Compacted
Concrete Pavements ASTM
100 Barr Harbor Drive
American Society for Testing and Materials Standards (ASTM) West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959
C 29/ Standard Test Method for Unit Weight and Voids
C 29 M in Aggregate 5.2Cited references
C 31/ Standard Practice for Making and Curing 1. Bahrner, V., 1940, New Swedish Consistency Test
C 31 M Concrete Test Specimens in the Field Apparatus and Method, Betong (Stockholm), No. 1, pp. 27-38.
C 33 Standard Specification for Concrete Aggregates 2. Cusens, A. R., 1956, The Measurement of the Work-
C 39 Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength ability of Dry Concrete Mixes, Magazine of Concrete
of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens Research, V. 8, No. 22, Mar., pp. 23-30.
C 78 Standard Test Method for Flexural Strength of 3. Glanville, W. H.; Collins, A. R.; and Matthews, D. D.,
Concrete (Using Simple Beam with Third-Point 1947, The Grading of Aggregates and Workability of
Loading) Concrete, Road Research Technical Paper No. 5, Department
C 90 Standard Specification for Load Bearing Concrete of Scientific and Industrial Research/Ministry of Transport,
Masonry Units Her Majestys Stationery Office, London, 38 pp.
C 136 Standard Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine 4. Thaulow, S., 1952, Field Testing of Concrete, Norsk
and Coarse Aggregate Cementforening, Oslo.
C 138 Standard Test Method for Unit Weight, Yield, 5. Thaulow, S., 1955, Concrete Proportioning, Norsk
and Air Content (Gravimetric) of Concrete Cementforening, Oslo.
C 143/ Standard Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic 6. Meininger R.C., 1988, No-Fines Pervious Concrete for
C 143 M Cement Concrete Paving, Concrete International, V. 10, No. 8, Aug., pp. 20-27.
C 150 Standard Specification for Portland Cement 7. NCMA High Strength Block Task Force, 1971, Special
C 192/ Standard Practice for Making and Curing Considerations for Manufacturing High Strength Concrete
C 192 M Concrete Test Specimens in the Laboratory Masonry Units.
8. Menzel, C. A., 1934, Tests of the Fire Resistance and From Fig. 3.2, with a nominal maximum-size aggregate of
Strength of Walls of Concrete Masonry Units, PCA, Jan. 1-1/2 in. and a fineness modulus of sand of 2.80, 0.71 ft3 of
9. Grant, W., 1952, Manufacture of Concrete Masonry coarse aggregate, on a dry-rodded basis, would be required
Units, Concrete Publishing Corp., Chicago, IL. in each cubic foot of concrete having a slump of about 3 to 4 in.
In Fig. 3.3, for the very stiff consistency desired, the
APPENDIX 1 PROPORTIONING COMPUTATIONS amount of coarse aggregate should be 125% of that for the
(INCH-POUND UNITS) plastic consistency, or 0.71 1.25 = 0.89. The quantity in a
A1.1General proportioning criteria cubic yard will be 27 0.89 = 24.03 ft3, which in this case is
Computation of proportions will be explained by one 100 24.03, or 2403 lb.
example. The following criteria are assumed: With the quantities of cement, water, coarse aggregate,
The cement specific gravity is 3.15; and air established, the sand content is calculated as follows:
Coarse and fine aggregates in each case are of satisfactory Solid volume
quality and are graded within limits of generally accepted = [523 / (315 62.4)] = 2.66 ft3
of cement
specifications;
The coarse aggregate has a specific gravity, bulk oven- Volume of water = [225 / 62.4] = 3.61 ft3
dry, of 2.68 and an absorption of 0.5%; and Solid volume of
The fine aggregate has a specific gravity, bulk oven-dry, = [2403 / (2.68 62.4)] = 14.37 ft3
coarse aggregate
of 2.64, an absorption of 0.7%, and fineness modulus of
2.80. Volume of air = 27.00 0.030 = 0.81 ft3
Total volume of
A1.2Example of proportioning computations ingredients = 21.45 ft3
Concrete is required for an extruded product that will be except sand
exposed to severe weather with frequent cycles of freezing
Solid volume of
and thawing. Structural considerations require it to have a = [27.00 21.45] = 5.55 ft3
sand required
design compressive strength of 4000 psi at 28 days. From
previous experience in the plant producing similar products, Required weight of
= [5.55 2.64 62.4] = 914 lb
the expected coefficient of variation of strengths is 10%. It is oven-dry sand
further required that no more than one test in 10 will fall below
[(914 0.007) +
the design strength of 4000 psi at 28 days. From Fig. 4.1(a) of Water absorbed = = 18 lb
(2403 0.005)]
ACI 214, the required average strength at 28 days should be
4000 1.15, or 4600 psi. The size of the section and spacing The estimated batch quantities per cubic yard of concrete are:
of reinforcement are such that a nominal maximum-size Cement = 523 lb
coarse aggregate of 1-1/2 in. graded to No. 4 can be used and Water = 243 lb (225 + 18)
is locally available. Heavy internal and external vibrations
Sand, oven-dry = 914 lb
are available to achieve consolidation, enabling the use of
Coarse aggregate, oven-dry = 2403 lb
very stiff concrete. The dry-rodded density of the coarse
Air-entraining admixture = (as required) for 3% air
aggregate is found to be 100 lb/ft 3. Because the exposure
is severe, air-entrained concrete will be used. The proportions
A1.3Batching quantities for production use
may be computed as follows: For the sake of convenience in making trial mixture com-
From Fig. 3.1, the w/cm required to produce an average putations, the aggregates have been assumed to be in an
28 day strength of 4600 psi in air-entrained concrete is oven-dry state. Under production conditions they generally
shown to be approximately 0.43 by mass. will be moist and the quantities to be batched into the mixer
The approximate quantity of mixing water needed to produce must be adjusted accordingly.
a consistency in the very stiff range in air-entrained concrete With the batch quantities determined in the example, let it
made with 1-1/2 in. nominal maximum-size aggregate is to be assumed that tests show the total moisture of sand to be
be 225 lb/yd3 (Fig. 2.2). In Fig. 2.3, the desired air content, 5.0 and 1.0% for the coarse aggregate. Because the quantity of
which in this case will be produced by use of an air-entraining oven-dry sand required was 914 lb, the amount of moist sand to
admixture, is indicated as 4.5% for the more plastic mixtures. be weighed out must be 914 1.05 = 960 lb. Similarly, the
An air-entraining admixture, when added at the mixer as liquid, weight of moist coarse aggregate must be 2403 1.01 =
should be included as part of the mixing water. The note to 2427 lb.
the figure calls attention to the lower air contents entrained The free water in the aggregates, in excess of their absorption,
in these stiffer mixtures. For this concrete, assume the air must be considered as part of the mixing water. Because
content to be 3.0% when the suggestions in the note are the absorption of sand is 0.7%, the amount of free water
followed. which it contains is 5.0 0.7 = 4.3%. The free water in the
From the preceding two paragraphs, it can be seen that the coarse aggregate is 1.0 0.5 = 0.5%. Therefore, the mixing
required cementitious material is 225/0.43 = 523 lb/yd3. water contributed by the sand is 0.043 914 = 39 lb and that
Portland cement only will be used. contributed by the coarse aggregate is 0.005 2403 = 12 lb.
Table A1.1Comparison between computed batch APPENDIX 2LABORATORY TESTS

quantities and those used in production A2.1General
Batch quantities of concrete per cubic yards As stated in the Introduction, selection of concrete mixture
Ingredients Computed, lb Used in production, lb proportions can be accomplished most effectively from
Cement 523 523 results of laboratory tests that determine basic physical
Net mixing water 225 225 properties of materials needed for proportioning no-slump
Sand 914 (dry) 960 (moist) concrete mixtures; that establish relationships between w/cm,
Coarse aggregate 2403 (dry) 2427 (moist) air content, cement content, and strength; and which furnish
Water absorbed 18 information on the workability characteristics of various com-
Excess water 51 binations of ingredient materials. The extent of investigation
Total 4083 4084 of fresh and hardened concrete properties for any given job will
Water added at mixer 243 174 depend on the size of the project, and importance and service
conditions involved. Details of the laboratory program
will also vary depending on facilities available and on in-
The quantity of mixing water to be added, then, is 225 (39 dividual preferences.
+ 12) = 174 lb. Table A1.1 shows a comparison between
the computed batch quantities and those actually to be A2.2Physical properties of cement
used in the field for each cubic yard of concrete. Physical and chemical characteristics of cement influence
The preceding computations provide batch quantities for the properties of hardened concrete. The only property of
each ingredient of the mixture per cubic yard of concrete. It cement directly concerned in computation of concrete
is seldom desirable or possible to mix concrete in exactly mixture proportions is specific gravity. The specific gravity of
1 yd 3 batches. It is therefore necessary to convert these cement may be assumed to be 3.15 without introducing
quantities in proportion to the batch size to be used. Let it be appreciable error in mixture computations.
assumed that a 16 ft3 capacity mixer is available. To produce A sample of cement of the type selected for the project
a batch of the desired size and maintain the same propor- should be obtained from the mill that will supply the job. The
tions, the cubic yard batch quantities of all ingredients for the sample quantity should be adequate for tests contemplated
project must be reduced in the ratio 16/27 = 0.593, thus: with a liberal margin for additional tests that might later be
considered desirable. Cement samples should be shipped in
Cement = 0.593 523 = 310 lb
airtight containers or in moisture-proof packages.
Sand (moist) = 0.593 960 = 569 lb
Coarse aggregate (moist) = 0.593 242 = 144 lb A2.3Properties of aggregate
Water to be added = 0.593 174 = 103 lb Sieve analysis, specific gravity, absorption, and moisture
content of both fine and coarse aggregate and dry-rodded
A1.4Adjustment of trial mixture density of coarse aggregate are essential physical properties
The estimate of total water requirement given in Fig. 2.1 required for mixture computations. Other tests that may be
and 2.2 may underestimate the water required. In such cases, desirable for large or special types of work include petro-
the amount of cementitious materials should be increased to graphic examination, tests for chemical reactivity and sound-
maintain the w/cm, unless otherwise indicated by laboratory ness, durability, resistance to abrasion, and for various
tests. This adjustment will be illustrated by assuming that the deleterious substances. All such tests yield valuable informa-
tion for judging the ultimate quality of concrete and in select-
concrete for the example was found in the field trial batch to
ing appropriate proportions.
require 240 lb/yd3 of mixing water instead of 225 lb/yd3.
Aggregate grading or particle-size distribution is a major
Consequently, the cementitious materials content should be
factor in controlling unit water requirement, proportion of
increased from 523 to (240/225) 523 = 558 lb/yd3 and the
coarse aggregate to sand, and cement content of concrete
batch quantities recomputed accordingly.
mixtures for a given degree of workability. Numerous ideal
Sometimes less water than indicated in Fig. 2.1 and 2.2 aggregate grading curves have been proposed, but a universally
may be required, but it is recommended that no adjustment accepted standard has not been developed. Experience and
be made in the amount of cementitious materials for the individual judgment must continue to play important roles in
batch in progress. Strength results may warrant additional determining acceptable aggregate gradings. Additional
batches with less cementitious materials. Adjustment in workability, realized by use of air entrainment, permits the
batch quantities is necessary to compensate for the loss of use of less restrictive aggregate gradings to some extent.
volume due to the reduced water. This is done by increasing Undesirable sand gradings may be corrected to desired
the solid volume of sand in an amount equal to the volume of particle size distribution by:
the reduction in water. For example, assume that 215 lb of Separation of the sand into two or more size fractions
water are required instead of 225 lb for the concrete of the and recombining in suitable proportions;
example. Then 215/62.4 is substituted for 225/62.4 in com- Increasing or decreasing the quantity of certain sizes to
puting the volume of water in the batch, and the solid volume balance the grading;
of sand becomes 5.71 instead of 5.55 ft3. Reducing excess coarse material by grinding; or
By the addition of manufactured sand.

Undesirable coarse aggregate gradings may be corrected
by:
Crushing excess coarser fractions;
Wasting excess material in other fractions;
Supplementing deficient sizes from other sources; or
A combination of these methods.
The proportions of various sizes of coarse aggregate
should be held closely to the grading of available materials
to minimize the amount of waste material. Whatever processing
is done in the laboratory should be practical from a standpoint
of economy and job operation. Samples of aggregates for
concrete mixture tests should be representative of aggregate
selected for use in the work. For laboratory tests, the coarse
aggregates should be cleanly separated into required size frac-
tions to provide for uniform control of mixture proportions.
The particle shape and texture of both fine and coarse
aggregate also influence the mixing water requirement of
concrete. Void content of compacted dry, fine, or coarse
aggregate can be used as an indicator of angularity. Void
contents of more than 40% in conventionally graded aggre-
gates indicate angular material that will probably require
more mixing water than given in Fig. 2.1 and 2.2. Conversely,
rounded aggregates with voids below 35% will probably
need less water.
A2.4Concrete mixture tests

The values listed in the figures (2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.2, and
3.3) can be used for establishing a preliminary trial mixture. Fig. A2.1Modified Vebe apparatus. Photograph provided
by Soiltest Division, ELE International.
They are based on averages obtained from a large number of
tests and do not necessarily apply exactly to materials being
used on a particular job. If facilities are available, it is advisable
concrete are published by the American Society for Testing
to make a series of concrete tests to establish the relationships
and Materials, the American Association of State Highway
needed for selection of appropriate proportions based on the
and Transportation Officials, and various Federal and State
materials actually to be used.
agencies. A list of useful test methods is shown in the appendix
Air-entrained concrete or concrete with no measurable
to ACI 211.1.
slump must be machine-mixed. Before mixing the first
batch, the laboratory mixer should be buttered, as de-
scribed in ASTM C 192/ C 192 M, because a clean mixer A2.6Equipment and techniques for
retains a percentage of mortar that should be taken into measuring consistency
account. Similarly, any processing of materials in the lab- The following is a more detailed description of the equip-
oratory should simulate, as closely as practicable, corre- ment and techniques involved in a method for measuring
sponding treatment in the field. Adjustments of the consistency described in Section 2.2.
preliminary trial mixture will almost always be necessary.
It should not be expected that field results will check exactly A2.7Vebe apparatus
with laboratory results. An adjustment of the selected trial The Vebe apparatus consists of a heavy base, resting on
mixture on the job is usually necessary. three rubber feet, a vibrating table supported on rubber shock
Some of the variables that may require a more extensive absorbers, a motor with rotating eccentric mass, a cylindrical
program are alternative aggregate sources and different metal container to hold the concrete sample (approximate
aggregate gradings, different types and brands of cement, inside dimensions: 240 mm [9-1/2 in.] in diameter and 195 mm
different admixtures, different nominal maximum sizes of [7-3/4 in.] high), a slump cone (ASTM C 143/ C 143 M), a
aggregate, considerations of concrete durability, thermal funnel for filling the slump cone, a swivel arm holding a
properties, and volume change, which includes drying graduated metal rod, and a clear plastic disk (diameter of
shrinkage and temperature due to cement hydration. disk slightly less than diameter of cylindrical metal container).
The vibrating table is typically 380 mm (15 in.) in length,
A2.5Specifications and test methods 260 mm (10-1/4 in.) in width, and 300 mm (12 in.) in height.
Appropriate specifications and test methods for the various The overall width, with the disk swung away from the
ingredients in concrete and for freshly mixed and hardened container, is 675 mm (26-1/2 in.). The overall height
above floor level from the top edge of the funnel used to fill If vibration is used, however, the workability characteristics
the slump cone is approximately 710 mm (28 in.). The total of the same concrete might be considered as excellent. The
mass of the equipment is approximately 95 kg (210 lb). range of workable mixtures can be broadened by adopting
Figure A2.1 shows the apparatus mounted on a concrete compaction techniques that impart greater energy into the
pedestal approximately 380 mm (15 in.) in height. mass to be consolidated. The standard test method for
To carry out the Vebe test devise shown in Fig. A2.1, the measuring the consistency of RCC is ASTM C 1170,
sample of concrete is compacted in the slump cone, the top which uses the modified Vebe apparatus.
struck off, the cone removed, and the slump measured, as per The modified Vebe apparatus shown in Fig. A2.1 consists
ASTM C 143/ C 143 M. The swivel arm is then moved into of a vibrating table of fixed frequency and amplitude, with a
position with the clear plastic disk and graduated rod resting 0.009 m3 (0.33 ft3) container attached to the table. A repre-
on top of the concrete sample. The vibrator is switched on sentative sample of RCC is loosely placed in the container
and the time in seconds to deform the cone into a cylinder, at under a surcharge of 23 kg (50 lb). The measure of consis-
which stage the whole face of the plastic disk is in contact tency is the time of vibration, in seconds, required to fully
with the concrete, is determined. This time in seconds is used consolidate the concrete, as evidenced by the formation of a
as a measure of the consistency of the concrete. ring of mortar between the edge of the surcharge and the wall
of the container. The Vebe time is normally determined for a
APPENDIX 3ROLLER-COMPACTED CONCRETE given RCC mixture and compared with the field results of
MIXTURE PROPORTIONING onsite compaction tests conducted with vibratory rollers to
A3.1General determine if adjustments in the mixture proportions are
Roller-compacted concrete (RCC) is defined in ACI 116R necessary. The optimum Vebe time is influenced by the
as concrete compacted by roller compaction; concrete that mixture proportions, particularly the water content, nominal
in its unhardened state will support a roller while being maximum aggregate size, fine aggregate content, and the
compacted. Conventional concrete cannot generally be amount of aggregate finer than the 75 m (No. 200) sieve.
reproportioned for use as RCC by any single action, such as
altering the proportions of mortar and coarse aggregate,
A3.3Durability
reducing the water content, changing the w/cm, or increasing
Although the resistance of RCC to deterioration due to
the fine aggregate content. Differences in conventional portland
cycles of freezing and thawing has been good in some
cement concrete and RCC mixture proportioning procedures
pavements and other structures, RCC should not be considered
are primarily due to the relatively dry consistency of RCC
and the possible use of unconventionally graded aggregates. resistant to freezing and thawing unless it is air-entrained or
some other protection against critical saturation is provided. If
This guide describes methods for selecting proportions for
the RCC does not contain a sufficiently fluid paste, proper air
RCC mixtures for use in mass concrete and horizontal concrete
entrainment will be difficult, if not impossible, to achieve. In
slab or pavement construction applications. The methods
addition, a test method for measuring the air content of fresh
provide a first approximation of proportions intended to
RCC has not been standardized.
be checked by trial batches in the laboratory or field, and
adjusted, as necessary, to produce the desired characteristics Other ways of protecting RCC from frost damage in mass
of the RCC. Additional information on RCC can be found in concrete applications may include sacrificial RCC on exposed
ACI 207.5R and ACI 325.10R. surfaces, a conventional air-entrained concrete facing, or some
means of membrane protection.
A3.2Consistency RCC produced with significant amounts of clay will check
For RCC to be effectively consolidated, it must be dry and crack when exposed to alternating cycles of wetting and
enough to support the weight mass of a vibratory roller yet drying, while that proportioned with nonplastic aggregate
wet enough to permit adequate compaction of the paste fines generally experiences no deterioration.
throughout the mass during the mixing and compaction
operations. Concrete suitable for compaction with vibratory A3.4Strength
rollers differs significantly in appearance in the unconsolidated The strength of compacted RCC, assuming the use of con-
state from that of concrete having a measurable slump. There is sistent quality aggregates, is determined by the water-cement
little evidence of any paste in the mixture except for coating ratio (w/c). Differences in strength and degree of consolida-
on the aggregate until it is consolidated. RCC mixtures should tion for a given w/cm can result from changes in maximum
have sufficient paste volume to fill the internal voids in size of aggregate; grading, surface texture, shape, strength,
the aggregate mass and therefore may differ from related and stiffness of aggregate particles; differences in cement
materials such as soil cement or cement-treated base types and sources; entrapped air content; and the use of
course. admixtures that affect the cement hydration process or develop
Although the slump test is the most familiar means of mea- cementitious properties themselves. ASTM C 1176 is the
suring concrete consistency in the United States and is the standard method practice for fabricating test specimens,
basis for the measures of consistencies shown in ACI 211.1, which involves molding specimens by filling the molds in
it is not suitable to measure RCC consistency. RCC will have layers and consolidating each layer of RCC under a surcharge
poor workability if compaction by hand-rodding is attempted. on a vibrating table.
A3.5Selection of materials broader limits for some deleterious substances than those
A3.5.1 GeneralMaterials used to produce RCC consist specified in ASTM may be acceptable.
of cementitious materials, water, fine and coarse aggregate, Greater economy may be realized by using the largest
and sometimes chemical admixtures. Materials and mixture practical nominal maximum-size aggregate (NMSA). Increas-
proportions used in various projects to date have ranged ing the NMSA reduces the void content of the aggregate and
from pit- or bank-run, minimally processed, aggregates with thereby lowers the paste requirement of a mixture. Lower
low cementitious material contents, to fully processed concrete cementitious material contents, in turn, reduce the poten-
aggregates having normal size separations and high cementi- tial for cracking due to thermal stress in massive sections.
tious materials contents. Mixture proportions and materials The disadvantages of increasing the NMSA are primarily
selection criteria for RCC in massive concrete applications associated with RCC mixing and handling problems. In
are based on the need to provide bond between layers while the United States, the NMSA has generally been limited
still maintaining a cementitious material content low enough to 25.0 mm (1 in.) in RCC produced for horizontal applica-
to minimize temperature rise due to the heat of hydration that tions such as pavements and slabs, and to 75 mm (3 in.) in
can cause thermal cracking when the RCC cools quickly. RCC used in massive sections.
The specified strength, durability requirements, and intended The range in gradings of aggregate used in RCC mixtures
application affect the materials selected for use in RCC slabs has varied from standard graded concrete aggregate with
and pavements. normal size separations to pit- or bank-run aggregate with
A3.5.2 Cementitious materialsCementitious materials little or no size separation. Changes in consistency and work-
used in RCC can include portland cement, blended hydraulic ability are affected by changes in aggregate grading. The
cements, or a combination of portland cement and pozzolans. relative compactability of RCC is also affected by the aggregate
The selection of cement types should be based in part on the de- grading and fines content.
sign strength and the age at which this strength is required. The volume of coarse aggregate in an RCC mixture directly
In addition, applicable limits on chemical composition required affects the effort required to compact the mixture. Assuming an
for different exposure conditions and alkali reactivity should adequate volume of paste is available in the mixture, a wide
follow standard concrete practices. For massive RCC struc- range of coarse and fine aggregate gradings is not likely to
tures, the use of cement with heat of hydration limitations is significantly affect the densities achieved in the field. For
recommended. A detailed discussion of cementitious materi- RCC pavement applications in which longitudinal and trans-
als for use in mass concrete is found in ACI 207.1R. verse pavement smoothness are of importance, the coarse
and fine aggregates should be combined so that a
Selection of a pozzolan suitable for use in RCC should be
dense-graded aggregate blend is produced that approaches a
based on conformance with applicable standards or specifi-
maximum-density grading. Equation (A3.1), the equation
cations, its performance in the concrete, and its availability
for Fullers maximum density curve, gives an approxi-
to the project location. Pozzolans have been successfully
mate cumulative percentage of material finer than each
used in RCC to reduce heat generation, increase ultimate
sieve. This grading results in a mixture that is compactible
strength beyond 180 days age, and increase the paste volume
yet stable under the roller.
of mixtures to improve compaction characteristics. The use of
fly ash is a particularly effective means of providing additional
12
fine material to aid in the compaction of those RCC mixtures P = (d D) ( 100 ) (A3.1)
that contain standard graded concrete fine aggregate.
A3.5.3 AggregatesThe aggregates generally comprise 75 where
to 85% of the volume of an RCC mixture, depending on P = cumulative percent finer than the d-size sieve;
the intended application, and significantly affect both the d = sieve opening, mm (in.); and
fresh and hardened concrete properties. In freshly mixed D = NMSA, mm (in.).
RCC, aggregate properties affect the workability of a In areas where pozzolans are not readily available, the use
mixture and its potential to segregate, which in turn affects of blended sands or mineral fines can be a beneficial means
the ability of the mixture to consolidate under a vibratory of reducing or filling aggregate voids; in some instances,
roller. Aggregate properties also affect hardened concrete however, their use can also increase the amount of water
characteristics such as strength, elastic and thermal proper- required to achieve the consistency needed to ensure thorough
ties, and durability. The aggregate grading and particle shape consolidation. The effects of these materials on the RCC
affect the paste requirement of an RCC mixture. For high- mixture proportions should be evaluated by determining
quality RCC, both the coarse and fine aggregate fractions their effect on minimum paste volume requirements or by
should be composed of hard, durable particles, and the qual- evaluation of test specimens for strength, shrinkage, or
ity of each should be evaluated by standard physical property both.
tests such as those given in ASTM C 33. If lower-quality A3.5.4 AdmixturesChemical admixtures, including
RCC is acceptable, then a variety of aggregate sources that water-reducing and retarding admixtures, have experi-
may not meet ASTM grading and quality requirements may enced wide use in RCC placed in massive sections, but their
be satisfactory as long as design criteria are met. For example, use has been more limited in pavement applications. The
in stiff, lean RCC mixtures to be used in massive sections, ability of these admixtures to lower the water requirements
struction applications can be proportioned using the first

method, the second method is limited for use on those
mixtures containing 19 mm (3/4 in.) or smaller NMSA.
Proportions determined by the use of either procedure
should result in mixtures that contain sufficient paste vol-
ume to fill voids between aggregate particles and coat in-
dividual aggregate particles.
A3.6.2.1 Procedure for proportioning RCC to meet
specified limits of consistencyThis method uses the
modified Vebe test, as previously described in Section A3.2,
as the basis for determining optimum workability and aggre-
gate proportions. The vibration time for full consolidation is
measured and compared with field-compaction tests con-
ducted with vibratory rollers. The desired time is determined
based on the results of density tests and evaluation of cores.
The vibration time is influenced by a number of parameters
of the mixture, including water content, combined aggregate
grading, NMSA, fine aggregate content, and content of ma-
terial finer than the 75 m (No. 200) sieve. Mixtures that
contain relatively clean concrete sands and fixed aggregate
grading in lines 18 and 19 with 38 mm (1-1/2 in.) NMSA
generally require 15 to 30 s to fully consolidate. Those
mixtures containing clean sands, fixed aggregate grading,
and 19 mm (3/4 in.) or smaller NMSA to be used for hor-
Fig. A3.1Relation between unit water content and com-
pressive strength of mass concrete. izontal construction applications require approximately 35
to 50 s to fully consolidate.
or to provide extended workability to a mixture appears to be A3.6.2.2 Water contentThose mixtures with paste
volumes in excess of aggregate void volumes will fully con-
largely dependent on the amount and type of aggregate finer
solidate to approximately 98% of their theoretical densities
than the 75 m (No. 200) sieve. Air-entraining admixtures
as defined by ASTM C 138. Variations in mixture water con-
have seen limited use in RCC. Conventional methods of adding
tents will directly affect the compactive effort required to
air-entraining admixtures at the mixer have only been margin-
achieve full consolidation. The optimum water content of a
ally successful in entraining proper air-void systems in lean
given mixture is that whose variability has the least effect on
RCC mixtures. Limited data have shown, however, that if air
compactive effort for full consolidation. If the water content
can be entrained in RCC, significant improvements in resis-
of a mixture is too low, the aggregate voids will no longer be
tance to freezing and thawing can be achieved.
filled with paste and the strength of the mixture will decrease
even though the w/cm has decreased. Figure A3.1 shows an
A3.6Selection of mixture proportions example of the variation in strength with water content for a
A3.6.1 GeneralA number of RCC mixture proportion- fixed cementitious materials content.
ing methods have been successfully used to produce mix- A3.6.2.3 Cementitious material contentThe cementi-
tures for mass concrete applications and pavements and tious material content used in RCC mixtures depends on the
other horizontal concrete construction applications. These specified strength, bond requirement between layers, and
methods have differed significantly for a number of reasons. thermal considerations. For a given cementitious materials
One significant reason has been the philosophy of the treat- content, the strength at a given age will be maximized when
ment of the aggregates as either conventional concrete ag- the paste volume is just enough to fill the aggregate voids.
gregates or as aggregates used in the placement of stabilized Strength will be reduced if the paste volume is not sufficient
materials. to fill the entrapped air voids or if the water content is increased
Two methods are described herein for selecting propor- to a point that creates excess paste but a higher w/cm. Therefore,
tions for RCC mixtures. The first is recommended primarily as the paste content increases, the water content can be reduced
for use in selecting proportions of lean mixtures, which and strength optimized without losing workability. For most
typically contain a 37.5 mm (1-1/2 in.) or larger NMSA ASTM C 150 Type I or II cements, Fig. A3.2 can be used as a
and are intended for use in relatively massive sections. The sec- guide to proportion equal-strength RCC for varying proportions
ond method is recommended primarily to proportion mixtures of portland cement and ASTM C 618 Class F pozzolans.
for relatively thin sections such as pavements or slabs. The Similar results can be expected with other pozzolans. The
former method is based on proportioning RCC to meet spec- use of mortar compressive strength tests have also been
ified limits of consistency, and the latter method is based on found to be a suitable means of determining the w/cm required
proportioning RCC, using soils compaction concepts. Al- for strength considerations. Once mortar is proportioned to
though RCC designed for use in horizontal concrete con- meet strength requirements, varying percentages of mortar
Table of notation
p/c = volumetric ratio of pozzolan to cement
PT = minimum paste content
Pv = ratio of air-free volume of paste to air-free volume of mortar
VCA = volume of coarse aggregate
VA = volume of air in mixture
Cv = unit volume of concrete upon which proportions are based
VP = air-free volume of paste
VMT = total mortar volume
Vm = air-free volume of mortar
VFA = volume of fine aggregate
VW = volume of water
VC = volume of cement
VF = volume of pozzolan
w/c+p = volumetric ratio of water to cement plus pozzolan
A3.6.2.5 Coarse aggregate contentFor any NMSA,

the minimum aggregate volume to produce no-slump consis-
tency can be determined by proportioning the mortar fraction to
yield the approximate strength that is required and then
adjusting the proportions of coarse aggregate and mortar
to achieve a zero slump. Once the coarse aggregate-mortar
ratio that yields zero slump is determined, the coarse aggregate
Fig. A3.2Proportioning curves for equal-strength concrete. can be increased until the ratio is reached that results in
the desired modified Vebe time. The absolute volume for
Table A3.1Recommended absolute volumes of coarse aggregate per unit volume of RCC will generally fall
coarse aggregate per unit volume of RCC within the limits of Table A3.1.
A3.6.3 Proportioning steps
NMSA*, mm (in.) Absolute volume, % of until RCC volume
150 (6) 63 to 64
Step 1Select the volumetric pozzolan-cement ratio (p/c)
115 (4-1/2) 61 to 63
and w/c+p from Fig. A3.2 for the production of trial mortar
75 (3) 57 to 61
and concrete batches.
37.5 (1-1/2) 52 to 56
Step 2Determine the minimum paste content PT as a
19 (3/4) 46 to 52
percentage of the total mortar volume using procedures
9.5 (3/8) 42 to 48
previously discussed. As an alternative, the ratio of the
air-free volume of paste to the air-free volume of mortar, Pv,
*NMSA = nominal maximum site aggregate.
in the range of 0.38 to 0.46 can be selected. Careful attention
should be given to selecting this value if it is not based on
and coarse aggregate can be proportioned to achieve a given specific test results.
workability as measured by Vebe time. These determinations Step 3Determine the volume of coarse aggregate, VCA,
are based upon the mortar required per unit volume of RCC. by trial methods as previously discussed until the desired
A3.6.2.4 Fine aggregate contentThe void content of modified Vebe time is obtained or by selection from Table
fine aggregate, as determined in dry-rodded density mea- A3.1.
surements, normally ranges from 34 to 42%. The minimum Step 4Assume the entrapped air content is 1.0 to 2.0%
of the total concrete volume. Calculate the volume of air in
paste volume can be determined by maximum density curves
the mixture from
in much the same way as optimum water content is deter-
VA = (air content/100) CV
mined in soils. Fine aggregate is added in equal increments
Step 5Calculate the air-free volume of paste, VP , from
to paste proportioned at the w/c determined for the mixture,
VP = (PT /100 VMT) VA
and specimen density measurements are made using ASTM where VMT = Total mortar volume = CV VCA
D 1557 or extended vibration. The density values are plotted Or if a value of Pv is selected in Step 2
versus the calculated paste volumes and the paste volume VP = Vm Pv
producing the maximum density of the mortar specimens where Vm = air-free volume of mortar
may be determined. The paste volume, as a ratio of the total = CV VCA VA b
mortar volume, should be increased from 5 to 10% for mass Step 6Determine the fine aggregate volume, VFA, from
concrete mixtures, and 20 to 25% for those mixtures de- VFA = CV VCA VP VA
signed for use when a bonding mortar is not used between hor- or
izontal lifts of RCC. VFA = Vm (1 Pv)
Step 7Determine the trial water volume, VW, from = 0.40 m3 f
VW = VP w/(c+p) / [1 + w/(c+p)] The value of VP is:

where: VP = 0.40 m3 0.39 = 0.156 m3
w/c+p = water-cementitious materials ratio, Step 6The fine aggregate volume, VFA, is:
by volume (Fig. A3.2). VFA = 0.40 m3 (1 0.39) = 0.244 m3
Step 8Determine the cement volume, VC , from Step 7The volume of water, VW, is:
VC = VW / {w/(c+p) [1 + (p/c)]} VW = (0.156 1.3)/(1 + 1.3) = 0.088 m3
Step 9Determine the pozzolan volume, VF, from Step 8The volume of cement, VC, is:
VF = VC ( p/c) VC = 0.088/[1.3 (1 + 3)] = 0.017 m3
Step 10Calculate the mass of each material by multiply- Step 9The volume of fly ash, VF, is:
ing its absolute volume by its respective solid bulk density. VF = 0.017 3 = 0.051 m3
Step 11Perform consistency tests on trial batches as pre- Step 10The bulk density (saturated surface dry basis) of
viously discussed to achieve the desired modified Vebe time each of the materials is:
or to determine the minimum vibration duration needed to cement = 3150 kg/m3
achieve maximum compacted density. fly ash = 2300 kg/m3
Step 12After the final aggregate volumes are selected, 4.75 to 19 mm = 2710 kg/m3
proportion at least two additional batchesone having a 19 to 37.5 mm = 2730 kg/m3
higher and one having a lower w/cp. Plot strength versus w/cp 37.5 to 75 mm = 2730 kg/m3
to determine the final mixture proportions. fine aggregate = 2690 kg/m3
A3.6.4 Example problemConcrete is required for a water = 1000 kg/m3
large, 1200 mm (48 in.) thick overflow slab located in a mod- Then the mass of each material (saturated-surface dry ba-
erate exposure environment. The specified compressive sis) required for 1 m3 of concrete is (volume in proportions
strength is 14 MPa (2000 psi) at 90 days. Water velocities bulk density):
will be less than 12 m/s (40 ft/s), and the concrete will be cement = 54 kg
continuously submerged. No reinforcement is required and fly ash = 117 kg
the area is accessible to large equipment. Placement condi- 4.75 to 19 mm = 545 kg
tions allow the use of 75 mm (3 in.) NMSA. Three coarse- 19 to 37.5 mm = 418 kg
aggregate size groups, consisting of 4.75 to 19 mm (No. 4 to 37.5 to 75 mm = 644 kg
3/4 in.), 19 to 37.5 mm (3/4 to 1-1/2 in.), and 37.5 to 75 mm fine aggregate = 656 kg
(1-1/2 to 3 in.), will be used in the concrete. These coarse ag- water = 88 kg
gregates will be combined in the proportions of 34, 26, and Step 11A sample taken from the trial batch indicates the
40% by volume, respectively, to match the idealized com- modified Vebe time is only 11 s. Adjust the trial mixture
bined grading given in ACI 211.1. Type II portland cement proportions by either increasing Pv or decreasing VCA, or
and Class F fly ash are available and will be specified. Pro- both, and recalculate the material absolute volumes and
portion an RCC mixture having a modified Vebe time of masses.
15 to 20 s, which will achieve the specified compressive Step 12After the aggregate volumes are finalized,
strength. proportion two additional mixtures; one having a higher and
Step 1An initial mixture will be proportioned with p/c = one having a lower w/(c+p). Plot compressive strength versus
3. (Subsequent mixtures would also likely be proportioned w/(c+p) to determine the final mixture proportions.
with other p/cs). From Fig. A3.2, w/(c+p) = 1.3 by volume. Steps 3-10 in inch-pound units
Step 2Based upon previous experience, a value of Pv = Step 3From Table A.3.1, the percentage of aggregate, by
0.39 is selected for the ratio of air-free volume of paste to the absolute volume, per unit volume of concrete is selected to
air-free volume of mortar. be 59. Therefore,
Steps 3-10 are presented in SI units and are repeated in Vca = 0.59 27 ft3 = 15.93 ft3
inch-pound units, which are shown in the framed text. and
Step 3From Table A3.1, the percentage of aggregate, by No. 4 to 3/4 in. = 0.34 15.93 ft3 = 5.42 ft3
absolute volume, per unit volume of concrete is selected to 3/4 to 1-1/2 in. = 0.26 15.93 ft3 = 4.14 ft3
be 59. Therefore, 1-1/2 to 3 in. = 0.4 15.93 ft3 = 6.37 ft3
Vca = 0.59 1 m3 = 0.59 m3 Step 4An entrapped air content of 1.0% is assumed. The
and volume of air, VA, is:
4.75 to 19 mm = 0.34 0.59 m3 = 0.201 m3 VA = (1.0/100) 27 ft3 = 0.27 ft3
19 to 37.5 mm = 0.26 0.59 m3 = 0.153 m3 Step 5The air-free volume of mortar, Vm, is:
37.5 to 75 mm = 0.40 0.59 m3 = 0.236 m3 Vm = 27 ft3 (0.59 27 ft3) 0.27 ft3
Step 4An entrapped air content of 1.0% is assumed. The The value of Vp is:
volume of air, VA, is: Vp = 10.80 ft3 0.39 = 4.22 ft3
VA = (1.0/100) 1 m3 = 0.01 m3 Step 6The fine aggregate volume, VFA, is:
Step 5The air-free volume of mortar, Vm, is: VFA = 10.80 ft3 (1 0.39) = 6.59 ft3
Vm = 1 m3 (0.59 1 m3) 0.01 m3 Step 7The volume of water, VW, is:
VW = (4.22 1.3)/(1 + 1.3) = 2.39 ft3

Step 8The volume of cement, Vc , is: Table A3.2Recommended RCC pavement
Vc = 2.39/[1.3 (1 + 3)] = 0.46 ft3 combined aggregate grading limits
Step 9The volume of fly ash, VF, is: Sieve size Cumulative percent passing
VF = 0.45 3 = 1.38 ft3 25 mm (1 in.) 100
Step 10The bulk density of each material is (specific 19 mm (3/4 in.) 82 to 100
gravity 62.4): 12.5 mm (1/2 in.) 72 to 93
cement = 196.6 lb/ft3 9.5 mm (3/8 in.) 66 to 85
fly ash = 143.5 lb/ft3 4.75 mm (No. 4) 51 to 69
No. 4 to 3/4 in. = 169.1 lb/ft3 2.36 mm (No. 8) 38 to 56
3/4 to 1-1/2 in. = 170.4 lb/ft3 1.18 mm (No. 16) 28 to 46
1-1/2 to 3 in. = 170.4 lb/ft3 600 m (No. 30) 18 to 36
fine aggregate = 167.9 lb/ft3 300 m (No. 50) 11 to 27
water = 62.4 lb/ft3 150 m (No. 100) 6 to 18
Then the mass of each material (saturated-surface dry ba- 75 m (No. 200) 2 to 8
sis) required for 1 yd3 of concrete is (volume in proportions
bulk density): (3/4 in.) NMSA to be used in RCC pavement mixtures are
cement = 88.5 lb given in Table A3.2. The volume of fine and coarse aggre-
fly ash = 198.1 lb gate per unit volume of concrete are determined after the
No. 4 to 3/4 in. = 916.5 lb optimum water content of the aggregate-cementitious material
3/4 to 1-1/2 in. = 705.3 lb mixture is determined.
1-1/2 to 3 in. = 1085.1 lb A3.7.4 Water contentFor a given compactive effort, the
fine aggregate = 1106.2 lb optimum moisture content of the mixture is depends upon
water = 147.9 lb the properties of the aggregates used and the cementitious
Steps 11 and 12 remain the same as before. material content. Strength loss will occur with a moisture
content below the optimum. This is due to insufficient paste
A3.7Proportioning using soil and the presence of voids between aggregate particles.
compaction concepts Strength loss will also occur if the moisture content is signif-
A3.7.1 GeneralThis proportioning method involves
icantly above the optimum due to an increase in the w/cm.
establishing a relationship between the dry density and
The moisture content (by mass) is expressed as a percent of
moisture content of the RCC by compacting specimens at a
the dry mass of the aggregate-cementitious material mixture
given compactive effort over a range of moisture content. It
and should be determined in accordance with ASTM C 566.
is similar to the method used to determine the relationship
After completion of compaction tests conducted at incre-
between the moisture content and dry density of soils and
mental moisture contents, the moisture-density data points
soil-aggregate mixtures. The compaction equipment used
are plotted, and a smooth curve is drawn through them. The
includes a 4.54 kg (10 lb) compaction hammer having an
peak of the parabolic curve establishes the optimum moisture
457 mm (18 in.) drop and a 152 mm (6.0 in.) diameter steel
content (Fig 3.3).
mold having a height of 116 mm (4.6 in.). Both are described
in ASTM D 1557. The method is suited to those mixtures A3.7.5 Proportioning steps
that have a NMSA of 19 mm (3/4 in.) or less and cementi- Step 1Combine dry coarse and fine aggregate to produce a
tious material contents greater than typically used in RCC grading within the limits of Table A3.2. Approximately 9 kg
mixtures for massive sections. It should generally be consid- (20 lb) of the combined aggregate are needed for each mois-
ered for use in proportioning RCC mixtures for relatively ture-density test.
thin section such as pavements or slabs. The compactive Step 2Select a cementitious materials content according
effort to be applied to the moisture-density specimens to the compressive or flexural strength. For RCC pavements
corresponds to that described in ASTM D 1557. having specified flexural strengths as determined in accordance
A3.7.2 Cementitious materials contentThe cementitious with ASTM C 78, of 4 to 5 MPa or 600 to 700 psi, the amount
materials content is determined by the compressive or flexural of cementitious materials used should range between 12 and
strength at the optimum water content for different mixtures. 16% by mass of dry aggregate. The value selected will depend
The cementitious material content is expressed as a percentage partially on the type and amount of pozzolan used.
of the dry mass of aggregate. The cementitious material Step 3Using the combined aggregate and the selected
content for RCC pavements generally ranges from 10 to cementitious materials content, determine the optimum
17%, depending on the strength and durability requirements. moisture content of the RCC in accordance with ASTM D
This range corresponds to approximately 210 to 360 kg/m3 or 1557. A minimum of four moisture-density specimens
350 to 610 lb/yd3 of cementitious material. should be molded, and each specimen should be prepared
A3.7.3 Fine and coarse aggregate contentFine and from a separate batch of RCC to avoid excessive cement
coarse aggregate should be blended to create a dense-graded hydration. Each successive batch should contain a higher
combined aggregate. Recommended grading limits for 19 mm moisture content than previous ones. This is done by adding
sufficient water to the batch so as to increase the RCC mois-

ture content, as a percentage of the dry mass of RCC by 0.75
to 1.0%.
Step 4Determine the optimum moisture content by plot-
ting the dry mass of each specimen versus its respective
moisture content and drawing a smooth curve through these
plotted points (Fig. A3.3). The moisture content and dry den-
sity corresponding to the peak of this curve is the optimum
moisture.
Step 5Assume an entrapped air content of 2.0%. (The
actual value can be calculated from compaction test results
and the zero air-voids curve.)
Step 6Using the optimum moisture content, the selected
cementitious materials content, and the value for the air content,
calculate the absolute volumes and masses of the materials for
the required unit volume of concrete. Fig. A3.3Typical moisture-dry density relationship.
Step 7Follow Steps 2 through 6 using a higher and lower
cementitious materials content. After trial batches are pro- cement = 3150 kg/m3 (197 lb/ft3)
duced at the optimum moisture content for each cementitious fly ash = 2450 kg/m3 (153 lb/ft3)
materials content, plot strength versus cementitious materials 4.75 to 19 mm
content to determine the value needed for the final mixture pro- (No. 4 to 3/4 in.) = 2716 kg/m3 (169.5 lb/ft3)
portions. Follow Steps 2 through 6 again with the selected
75 m to 4.75 mm
cementitious materials content to determine the optimum
moisture content and recalculate the material absolute No. 200 to No. 4) = 2624 kg/m3 (163.7 lb/ft3)
volumes and mass. water = 1000 kg/m3 (62 lb/ft3)
A3.7.6 Example problemConcrete pavement is required Calculations are given herein for SI units and the corre-
for a large storage terminal located in a moderate climate. sponding inch-pound values are in the framed text. The
The specified flexural strength is 4.5 MPa (650 psi) at 28 days proportions of materials (dry basis) used in a batch prepared
age. Local aggregate sources are capable of producing ample at the optimum moisture content are (in SI units):
supplies of aggregate fractions which, when properly blend-
4.86 kg
ed, will be well-graded. A nominal maximum-size aggregate 75 m to 4.75 mm = 9 kg 0.54 =
(0.00185 m3)
of 19 mm (3/4 in.) is selected based on the type of modified
paving equipment that is anticipated for use. Type I portland 4.14 kg
4.75 to 19 mm = 9 kg 0.46 =
cement and Class F fly ash are available and will be speci- (0.00152 m3)
fied. Proportion an RCC mixture which may be compacted cementitious
such that it contains not more than 2% voids and will achieve = (9 kg 0.14)/ 3150 = 0.0004 m3
material volume
the required strength.
Step 1Aggregates for the project are supplied in two size (0.0004 m3 0.75) 0.945 kg
cement = =
groups4.75 to 19 mm (No. 4 to 3/4 in.) and 75 m to 4.75 3150 kg/m 3 (0.0003 m3)
mm (No. 200 to No. 4). Sieve analysis tests indicate that if
46% of the coarse aggregate is combined with 54% of the (0.0004 m3 0.25) 0.245 kg
fly ash = =
fine aggregate, a well-graded combined aggregate grading 2450 kg/m 3 (0.0001 m3)
within the limits of Table A3.2 is produced. Four 9 kg or 20 lb
0.522 kg
batches of the combined dry aggregate are batched in water = 9 kg 0.058 =
preparation for the production of compaction test specimens. (0.000522 m3)
Step 2A cementitious materials content of 14% by dry total air-free
= 0.004292 m3
mass of aggregates is initially selected for use. A fly ash con- batch volume
tent of 25% by absolute volume of cementitious materials is
also selected. Varying cementitious materials contents and fly For 1 m3 of concrete, multiply the volume of each material
ash contents should be considered, depending on specifica- by:
tion requirements during the mixture proportioning study. (1 0.02)/ 0.004292 = 228.33
Steps 3 and 4Compaction tests are conducted in accor- 75 m to 4.75 mm = 0.422 m3 (1110 kg)
dance with ASTM D 1557, Method D, at regularly spaced
4.75 to 19 mm = 0.347 m3 (945 kg)
RCC moisture contents. The moisture-dry density curve
indicates the optimum moisture content is 5.8% and the cement = 0.069 m3 (216 kg)
maximum dry density of 2348 kg/m 3 or 146.5 lb/ft3. fly ash = 0.023 m3 (56 kg)
Steps 5 and 6The bulk densities (dry basis) of the materials water = 0.119 m3 (119 kg)
are: air = 0.02 m3
The proportions of materials (dry basis) used in a batch materials for the concrete mixture will vary depending on the
prepared at the optimum moisture content are (in inch-pound type of materials, the specific tile profile being produced,
units): and the desired density.
Material properties most critical for concrete roof tiles are
10.80 lb
No. 200 to No. 4 = 20 lb 0.54 = strength, absorption, durability, density, texture, and aesthetics.
(0.0660 ft3)
The strength of roof tiles is determined by measuring the
9.20 lb flexural load capacity.
No. 4 to 3/4-in. = 20 lb 0.46 =
(0.0543 ft3) A low-absorption value of concrete roof tiles is a major
cementitious factor in the design of a roof-framing system due to the effect
= (20 lb 0.14)/196.56 = 0.01425 ft3 of increased dead load under inclement weather conditions.
material volume
Low-absorption values are also thought to improve the dura-
(0.1425 ft3 0.75) 2.10 lb bility aspects of roof tiles; however, further studies on this
cement = =
196.56 lb/ft3 (0.01069 ft3) subject are warranted.
The density of roof tiles determines the load per unit area
(0.01425 ft3 0.25) 0.54 lb that a structure must support. This can influence the feasibil-
fly ash = =
152.88 lb/ft 3 (0.00356 ft3) ity of using concrete roof tile instead of asphaltic shingles for
1.16 lb a proposed reroofing operation.
water = 20 lb 0.058 = Texture and aesthetics are important for providing the pur-
(0.0186 ft3)
chaser with an architecturally desirable product that can be
total air-free manufactured to match pigmented stucco walls or other
= 0.1532 ft3
batch volume building elements.
For 1 yd3 of concrete, multiply the volume of each material
A4.2 Selection of materials
by
A4.2.1 Portland cementType I and Type III portland
(27 0.54)/0.1532 = 172.72
cement (ASTM C 150) are typically used in the production of
No. 200 to No. 4 (dry) = 11.40 ft3 (1866.3 lb) concrete roof tile depending upon the climate, availability,
No. 4 to 3/4-in. (dry) = 9.38 ft3 (1589.7 lb) and production schedule for the particular manufacturing
cement = 1.85 ft3 (363.6 lb) facility.
fly ash = 0.61 ft3 (93.3 lb) A4.2.2 Mineral admixturesPozzolans are sometimes
water = 3.21 ft3 (200.3 lb) used as partial replacement of portland cement. Typically,
air = 0.54 ft3 either Class F or Class C fly ash (ASTM C 618) is used.
Step 7Follow Steps 2 through 6 using a higher and lower Class C fly ash is often used because it provides faster
cementitious materials content. After trial batches are strength gain than Class F. Class C fly ash can be used as a
produced and flexural strength specimens molded and partial replacement for cement in the range of 20 to 25%. The
tested at the optimum moisture content for each cementi- cement replacement percentage should be determined so that
tious materials content, plot flexural strength versus cemen- sufficient early strength is obtained for production and
titious materials content to determine the value needed for handling.
the final mixture proportions. Follow Steps 2 through 6 again A4.2.3 Normalweight and lightweight aggregatesMost
with the selected cementitious materials content to determine roof tiles are produced using only normalweight aggregates;
the optimum moisture content and recalculate the material however, some production incorporates lightweight aggre-
absolute volumes and weights masses. gate. Lightweight roof tiles are produced mainly for the
reroofing market where structures are not designed for
APPENDIX 4CONCRETE ROOF TILE MIXTURE normalweight roof tile dead loads. Considering that patents
PROPORTIONING
for lightweight roof tile production are held by certain man-
A4.1 General
Concrete roof tiles are generally produced by an extrusion ufacturing companies, this guide deals exclusively with the
process, although some manufacturers incorporate a vibra- manufacture of roof tiles using normalweight aggregates.
tion and compaction process similar to that for producing A4.2.4 Grading and fineness modulusFine aggregate
masonry units and paving stones. The extrusion process only is used in the production of extruded concrete roof tile
requires a mixture incorporating only fine aggregate, to facilitate cutting of the extrudate and producing smooth
whereas the vibration and compaction process incorporates ends. The fineness modulus of the aggregate should range
both fine and coarse aggregates. This guide deals only with between 2.2 and 3.0, with a typical value being 2.5. The
the manufacture of concrete roof tiles by the extrusion process. grading limits that have been recommended by one an inter-
Roof tiles are produced by extruding a concrete mixture national supplier to the roof tile industry are shown in Fig. A4.1.
into a specific shape (profile) and cutting the extruded section to A4.2.5 Admixtures
the proper length. The freshly extruded roof tiles are transported AcceleratorsDepending on the climate, production
by conveyor to storage racks and subsequently placed into kilns schedule, and type of cement, accelerating admixtures are
for air, mist, or low-pressure steam curing. The proportioning of used in the production of roof tiles.
Example 2An example of a flat roof tile mixture using

Type III portland cement and no admixtures is:
1200 kg (2600 lb) sand (FM = 2.60, SSD)
387 kg (840 lb) cement (cement-aggregate ratio = 1:3.1)
123 kg (267 lb) water (w/c = 0.32)
13 kg (29 lb) pigment (3.5% by mass of cement)
APPENDIX 5CONCRETE MASONRY UNIT

MIXTURE PROPORTIONING
A5.1General
This guide contains methods for selecting mixture pro-
portions for standard CMU (less than no-slump mixtures)
manufactured on conventional vibrating block machines.
Covered are the selection of cementitious materials, blending
Fig. A4.1Aggregate grading ranges for concrete roof tiles. and proportioning aggregates for both normalweight and light-
weight units, and curing conditions as they affect mixture
proportioning. Mixture proportioning for decorative CMU is
Water repellentsIntegral water repellents can be used to not covered due to its highly specialized nature.
decrease water absorption of roof tile. Use of low w/cm,
pozzolans and low-absorption aggregates typically de- A5.2Cementitious materials
crease water absorption as well. A5.2.1 Portland cementPortland cement should conform
Plasticizers (wetting agents, water reducers)Plasticizers to ASTM C 150. In certain areas, block cement is used, but this
can be used to increase the flow of material while improving type of cement does not have a corresponding ASTM
the texture of the roof tile during extrusion and cutting. specification. This is a proprietary product and its performance
A4.2.6 PigmentsPigments are added integrally to the characteristics should be discussed with the cement supplier.
concrete mixture, or placed in a cement slurry, or both, Types III and III-A portland cements are frequently used to
and applied to the roof tile after extrusion. This is done to achieve early strengths and to facilitate handling and storage.
obtain the desired aesthetics with the roof tile, either by A5.2.2 Supplementary cementitious materialscommonly
producing a single color or applying a mottled color to the used supplementary cementitious materials are ground
exposed surface for a specific effect. granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBFS), fly ash (ASTM C
618, Class F and C) and silica fume. Common additions by
A4.3Proportioning procedure mass of cement for GGBFS are 20 to 50%. Fly ash is normally
A4.3.1 Water-cementitious materials ratioThe w/cm used at a rate of 15 to 25% by mass of cement.
can range from 0.32 to 0.45 depending on the fineness of A5.2.3 Quantity of cementitious materialsCementitious
the aggregate and the profile of the roof tile being pro- materials content of CMU mixtures can be expressed as
duced. When the amount of cementitious materials is held kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb) of material per batch or per
constant, the w/cm will increase with decreasing aggregate CMU (200 mm [8 in.] standard unit). Also, cement content
fineness modulus (due to increased surface area), but it may can be calculated as a percent of the total mass of the aggre-
not be clear how the type of roof tile profile being produced gates. Cement content can vary depending on design
influences the w/cm. strength, aggregate grading and quality, and expected curing
For a given concrete roof tile mixture, the flexural load condition. For ASTM C 90, CMU produced with normal-
capacity of a convoluted roof tile will be greater than that weight aggregates, a cement content of 7 to 10% by mass of
of a flat roof tile due to a greater moment of inertia for the aggregate is the normal range. Obviously, higher cement
convoluted tile. Therefore, to achieve the same flexural load factors are needed for high-strength CMU and these may
capacity, the concrete mixture for flat roof tile must be stronger exceed 20% by mass of aggregates. 9
than the mixture for convoluted roof tile. This is accomplished
by increasing the cement content of the mixture, which in A5.3Aggregates
turn, decreases the water-cementitious materials content. Aggregates for CMU may be made from either normal-
weight or lightweight materials. The normalweight materials
Cement-aggregate ratio by weight massThe cement to
are generally considered to be gravel, crushed limestone, and
aggregate ratio varies from 1:2.5 to 1:4.5, with a typical
unprocessed blast-furnace slag. Normalweight aggregates
cement to aggregate ratio for flat and convoluted roof tile
should conform to the requirements of ASTM C 33.
being 1:3 and 1:4, respectively.
Lightweight aggregates may be classified into three general
Example 1An example of a convoluted roof tile mixture
types as follows:
using Type III portland cement and no admixtures is:
Aggregates prepared by expanding, pelletizing, or
1200 kg (2600 lb) sand (FM = 2.60, SSD) sintering products such as blast-furnace slag, clay,
285 kg (620 lb) cement (cement-aggregate ratio = 1:4.2) diatomite, fly ash, shale, or slate;
123 kg (267 lb) water (w/c = 0.43) Aggregates prepared by processing natural materials,
10 kg (22 lb) pigment (3.5% by mass of cement) such as pumice, scoria, or tuff; or
Fig. A5.1Aggregate analysis graph: normal weight.
Table A5.1Fineness modulus (FM) by mass and volume

Cumulative Cumulative
Sieve size, mm or Percent retained percent retrained Specific gravity Percent retained percent retained
U.S. alternative by mass by mass (SSD) by volume by volume
9.5 (3/8 in.) 0 0
4.75 (No. 4) 5 5 1.5 5.9 5.9
2.36 (No. 8) 25 30 1.6 27.8 33.7
1.18 (No. 16) 25 55 1.7 26.1 59.8
0.60 (No. 30) 10 65 1.8 9.9 69.7
0.30 (No. 50) 10 75 1.9 9.3 79.0
0.15 (No. 100) 10 85 2.0 8.9 87.9
Pan/FM 15 FM by mass 2.2 12.1 FM by volume
Total 100 3.15 Total 100 3.36
Aggregate consisting of end products of coal or coke of material retained on each sieve, that ultimately determines
combustion. the void structure, paste requirements, and workability charac-
Lightweight aggregates should conform to ASTM C 331. teristics. An example is included and shown in Table A5.1 to
Grading of aggregatesGenerally, in CMU manufacture, further demonstrate this difference between the mass and
material passing the 9.5 mm (3/8 in.) sieve and remaining on volume occupied by particles on each sieve for a particular
the 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve is designated as coarse aggregate. lightweight aggregate.
A coarser grading of normalweight aggregate results in less From Table A5.1 it can be seen that the fineness modulus
surface area and less inter-particle voids; therefore, less cement by volume of 3.36 indicates a considerably coarser gradation
paste is needed. If the volume of cementitious materials is held than the fineness modulus by mass, 3.15. Therefore, because
constant, a lower w/cm can be used resulting in increased of their unique characteristics, lightweight aggregates require a
strength. Therefore, the ideally graded aggregate is that mix- significantly larger percentage of material retained on the finer
ture that contains as much coarse material as can be used, sieves, when computed on a mass basis, than normalweight
short of producing harshness in the mixture and an excessively aggregates to provide a comparable void system. Furthermore,
rough-textured CMU. pyroprocessed lightweight aggregate particles passing the
Fine aggregates consist of natural sand, lightweight fines 150 m (No. 100) sieve are extremely beneficial because
or stone screenings, which pass the 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve. they serve a dual role as both aggregate and pozzolan.
The grading of each aggregate to be used in the mixture It is important to recognize that the fineness modulus is a
should be determined in accordance with ASTM C 136. single number index that suggests an average particle size,
Fineness modulusThe specific gravity for natural aggregates and identical fineness moduli may be obtained from funda-
is essentially constant for all sieve sizes and, as a result, the mentally differing gradings. The fineness modulus can be
fineness modulus on a mass basis will directly reflect the useful as an overall qualitative index or for quality control of
volumes occupied by each particular size. In contrast, the an individual supplier providing a specific standard gradation,
specific gravities measured on each sieve size in a typical but it is not a reliable index for comparing alternative aggregate
commercial lightweight aggregate blend reveal a progres- sources. From the data shown in Table A5.2, it can be seen
sive increase in specific gravity as the particle size decreases. that an aggregate producer could supply three different grading
It is the volume occupied by each size fraction, not the mass textures that have identical fineness modulus that would
Fig. A5.2Aggregate analysis graph: fine texture intermediate weight.
Fig. A5.3Aggregate analysis graph: lightweight.
Table A5.2Comparison of gradings for aggregates with equal

fineness modulus
ASTM C 331 Texture ASTM C 331
limits for com- limits for com-
Sieve size, mm or bined aggregates, bined aggregates,
U.S. alternative % retained Fine Medium Coarse % retained
9.5 (3/8 in.) (0) 0 0 0 (0-10)
4.75 (No. 4) (0-15) 5 10 15 (10-35)
2.36 (No. 8) 35 40 45 (35-65)
1.18 (No. 16) (20-60) 55 55 55
0.60 (No. 30) 75 70 65
0.30 (No. 50) (65-90) 85 80 75 (75-90)
0.15 (No. 100) (75-95) 90 90 90 (85-95)
FM 3.45 3.45 3.45
produce CMUs with three significantly different textures. aggregate shown in Fig. A5.2 and A5.3 illustrates the ideal
Because fineness modulus methodology reflects an aver- grading for 100% lightweight CMU. Although the curves are
age particle size, by keeping the percent retained constant empirical, they can be modified to fit local market prefer-
on the 1.18 mm (No. 16) sieve for all gradings, one can ma- ences for surface texture. The optimum fineness modulus
nipulate numbers and arrive at the same fineness modulus for normalweight aggregates is generally considered to be
for all three fundamentally different products that satisfy the 3.70.
grading limits in ASTM C 331. Menzel8 showed that the influence of grading (expressed
Figure A5.1 illustrates the ideal grading and range for a blend in terms of fineness modulus) on the strength-making char-
of normalweight aggregates. A blend of intermediate-weight acteristics of CMU molded with structural grade lightweight
aggregate (LWA CMU) differed from units incorporating that mass-determined fineness moduli provide a satisfactory
rounded sand and gravel. The compressive strength of the basis for preliminary block mixtures because production
CMUs made with expanded shales was essentially constant adjustments are almost always needed. Block machine
over a wide range of fineness modulus up to approximately compaction and vibration will affect the surface texture of
3.5, after which there was a rapid decline in strength levels the masonry units as will the moisture content of the mixture
with coarser gradings. This behavior was opposite to the at time of use.
sand and gravel CMUs, which showed an increase of Calculation of batch quantitiesTo determine batch
strength, ultimately reaching a maximum at a fineness modulus quantities, the volume capacity of the mixer to be used and
above 4. Compressive strength levels for LWA CMUs signifi- the dry mass of the aggregates must be determined. For de-
cantly greater than ASTM C 90 minimums are best achieved sign purposes, the full-rated volume of the mixer is used, yet,
when finer gradings of structural grade lightweight aggre- total batch size may need adjusting as trial batches are run.
gate are used. Systematically eliminating large particles that Trial batch example:
have an inherently higher porosity, and as a consequence a Mixer volume = 2.27 m3 (80 ft3)
lower particle strength, will significantly increase the CA density (dry-rodded)= 1218 kg/m3 (76 lb/ft3)
strength. Lowering of the nominal maximum size of ag- FA density (dry-rodded) = 1522 kg/m3 (95 lb/ft3)
gregate also reduces bridging of particles within the mass The paste volume is only a little greater than the voids be-
and improves the compactability of the mixture. tween the aggregate particles so that the dry-rodded volume
Use of optimized gradings will result in a balance of qualities is close to the concrete volume. A batch volume of 2.21 m3
that include production characteristics (smooth feeding, or 78 ft3 will be used.
compactability, green strength) as well as superior hardened Mass calculations in SI units:
concrete properties. What is truly important in achieving the Mass of CA = 2.21 m3(0.39)1218 kg/m3 = 1050 kg
consistent quality standards required of high-quality LWA Mass of FA = 2.21 m3(0.61)1522 kg/m3 = 2052 kg
CMUs is close attention to specific individual sieve sizes of Total mass of aggregate = 3102 kg
aggregate, and in particular, the material retained on the Cement factor: assume 10% by mass of aggregate
4.75 and 2.36 mm (No. 4 and No. 8) sieves (essential for Cement content = 3102(0.10) = 310 kg
texture control) and that passing the 150 m (No. 100) Mass calculated in inch-pound units:
(critical for molding and handling characteristics). Follow- Mass of CA = 78 ft3 (0.39) (76 lb/ft3) = 2312 lb
ing the gradings recommendations shown in Fig. A5.3 will
Mass of FA = 78 ft3 (0.61) (95 lb/ft3) = 4520 lb
result in a uniform, fine-textured surface with an optimum
Total mass of aggregate = 6832 lb
interstitial void system within the block concrete. This will,
Cement factor: assume 10% by mass of aggregate
in turn, maximize the thermal, acoustical, and fire resistance as
Cement content = 6832 (0.10) = 683 lb
well as the strength-making properties of the finished product.
The water content is adjusted until the mixture will ball
in the hand. It will have sufficient cohesion to hold its shape
A5.4Proportioning procedure
when squeezed but will not exhibit any free moisture.
Calculation of aggregate proportionsThe percentage of
coarse and fine aggregate by volume to achieve an optimum This method is more of a trial-and-error approach than the
fineness modulus grading is calculated as follows volumetric approach and therefore, is for trial designs only.
Test batches must be run through the machine to be used in
production to verify such characteristics as compressive
FM CA FM COMB
FA% = ------------------------------------------------------- (A5.1) strength, surface texture, absorption, and green strength (the
( FM CA FM FA ) 100 ability of a freshly molded block to withstand machinery and
pallet movement without cracking).
where FMCA and FMFA are the fineness modulus of coarse
and fine aggregate, respectively; and FMCOMB is the recom- APPENDIX 6PERVIOUS CONCRETE MIXTURE
mended combined fineness modulus. PROPORTIONING
Example A6.1General
Given: FMCA = 5.48; FMFA = 2.57 This guide provides a method for proportioning no-slump
Desired combined FM COMB = 3.70 pervious concrete that is used for pavements and other appli-
cations where drainage and percolation are needed. Pervious
concrete is an open-graded material that is bound by cement
5.48 3.70 paste. The structure of the material allows the passage of wa-
FA% = ----------------------------------------------- = 61% (A5.2)
( 5.48 2.57 ) 100 ter, yet provides moderate structural strength. Because of the
high percentage of voids, pervious concrete has been used
Therefore, the blend would consist of 39% coarse aggre- also as an insulating material.
gate and 61% fine aggregate, by volume.
NOTE: Fineness modulus determinations are normally A6.2Materials
based on mass retained on given sieve sizes rather than vol- Pervious concrete is composed of cement or a combina-
umes. Volume-based gradings can be developed for use in tion of cement and pozzolan, coarse aggregate, and water.
designing block mixtures; however, experience has shown Occasionally, a small amount of fine aggregate has been
Fig. A6.1Minimum void content for percolation based on Fig. A6.3Relationship between paste and void content for
NAA-NRMCA tests and test method. No. 8 aggregate size designations.
Table A6.1Effective b/bo values

b/bo
ASTM C 33 ASTM C 33
Percent fine aggregates Size No. 8 Size No. 67
0 0.99 0.99
10 0.93 0.93
20 0.85 0.86
air-entrained. No research has been conducted on resistance

of pervious concrete to the aggressive attack by sulfate-bear-
ing or acidic water that can percolate through the concrete.
Fig. A6.2Relationship between void content and 28-day
compressive strength for No. 67 and No. 8 aggregate size. Therefore, caution should be used in applications where
aggressive water may exist.
incorporated to increase compressive strength and to reduce A6.5Percent voids

percolation through the concrete. The most common gradings Compressive strength versus percolationTo ensure that
of coarse aggregate used in pervious concrete meet the require- water will percolate through pervious concrete, the percent
ments of ASTM C 33 sieve sizes 9.5 to 2.36 mm (size number voids, calculated as percent air by the gravimetric method
8), 12.5 to 4.75 mm (size number 7), and 19.0 to 4.75 mm (ASTM C 138), should be 15% or greater as shown on
(size number 67). Portland cement should conform to ASTM Fig. A6.1. 6 At this void content, the compressive strength
C 150 or a combination of cementitious materials can be used of the concrete as shown in Fig. A6.2 would be approximately
that conform to the appropriate ASTM specifications. 24 MPa (3500 psi) at 28 days. The higher the percent voids, the
higher the percolation rate and the lower the compressive
A6.3Water-cementitious materials ratio strength. The lower the percent voids, the lower the percolation
The w/cm is an important consideration for maintaining rate and the higher the compressive strength. Also, the
strength and the void structure of the concrete. A high w/cm compressive strength increases as the nominal maximum
reduces the adhesion of the paste to the aggregate and causes size aggregate decreases.
the paste to flow and fill the voids even when lightly compacted.
A low w/cm will tend to cause balling in the mixer and prevent
A6.6Amount of coarse aggregate
an even distribution of materials. Experience has shown a
Coarse aggregate, b/bo, dry-rodded density tests made by
range of 0.35 to 0.45 will provide the best aggregate coating
the National Aggregates Association-National Ready Mixed
and paste stability. Higher values of w/cm should only be
Concrete Association (NAA-NRMCA)6 show that the
used if the concrete is lightly tamped or compacted. The w/cm
dry-rodded density of coarse aggregate, as determined by
versus compressive strength relationship, which is nor-
ASTM C 29/C 29M, can be effectively used in proportioning
mally used with conventional concrete, does not apply to
pervious concrete. pervious concrete, where:
b/bo = dry-rodded volume of coarse aggregate in a unit
A6.4Durability volume of concrete;
Freezing-and-thawing tests of pervious concrete indicate b = solid volume of coarse aggregate in a unit volume
poor durability if the void system is filled with water. Tests of concrete; and
have indicated that durability is improved when the void bo = solid volume of coarse aggregate in a unit volume
structure is permitted to drain and the cement paste is of coarse aggregate.
The b/bo value automatically compensates for the effects Figure A6.1 indicates a percolation rate of approximately
of different coarse aggregate particle shape, grading, and 125 mm/min (5 in./min) Figure A6.2 indicates a compres-
specific gravity. Furthermore, the b/bo values for a range of sive strength of approximately 17 MPa (2500 psi).
nominal maximum-size aggregates normally used in pervi- Solid volume of paste per m3(VP);
ous concrete, 10 to 20 mm (3/8 to 3/4 in.), are very similar. VP = 16.5/100 = 0.165 m3, and
Table A6.1 gives the b/bo values for coarse aggregate sizes 0.165 = c/3150 + ((0.38) c/1000), therefore;
No. 8 and No. 67 for fine aggregate contents of 0, 10, and c = 237 kg/m3
20% of the total aggregate. w = 237(0.38) = 90 kg/m3
VC = 237/3150 = 0.075 m3
A6.7Proportioning procedure VW = 90/1000 = 0.090 m3
The proportioning procedure for pervious concrete is
In inch-pound units
based on the volume of paste necessary to bind the aggregate
particles together while maintaining the necessary void VP = (16.5/100) 27 = 4.46 ft3; and
content, as shown in Fig. A6.3. The quantity of aggregate 4.46 = c/(3.15 62.4) + 0.38(c/62.4) = 2.03 + 2.42, there-
depends on the dry-rodded density and the b/bo values selected fore;
from Table A6.1. Once the paste volume is determined c = 399 lb/yd3
from Fig. A6.3 and the desired w/cm is selected, the cement VC = 399/(3.15 62.4) = 2.03 ft3
and water quantities can be determined from the relationship: w = (0.38)399 = 152 lb
Paste volume (VP) = cement volume + water volume, or VW = 152/62.4 = 2.43 ft3
VP = c/3150 + w/1000 (m3) The batch quantities, per m3, are as follows:
In inch-pound units Cement 237 kg/m3
VP = c/(3.15 62.4) + w/62.4 (ft3) Water 90 kg/m3
where c is the mass of cement and w is the mass of water. If No. 8 aggregate 1745 kg/m3 (SSD)
the water-cement ratio is (w/c) then Total mass = 2072 kg/m3
w = (w/c)c; and Density = 2072 kg/m3
VP = c/3150 + [(w/cm)c/1000] (m3) Check solid volume, per m3:
In inch-pound units Cement 0.075 m3
Vp = c/(3.15 62.4) + [(w/c)c/62.4] (ft3) Water 0.090 m3
Therefore, once the paste volume is determined from No. 8 aggregate 0.635 m3
Fig. A6.3 and the w/cm is selected, the mass of cement can Total 0.800 m3
be calculated. When fine aggregate is used, the paste volume Volume of voids = 1.000 0.800 = 0.200 m3
should be reduced by 2% for each 10% fine aggregate of the
The batch quantities, per yd3, are as follows:
total aggregate for well-compacted pervious concrete, and
Cement 399 lb/yd3
by 1% for each 10% fine aggregate of the total aggregate for
Water 152 lb/yd3
lightly compacted pervious concrete. These reductions are
necessary to maintain the same percent voids by volume. No. 8 aggregate 2941 lb/yd3 (SSD)
ExampleProportion a well-compacted pervious concrete Total mass = 3492 lb/yd3
mixture with a No. 8 coarse aggregate (ASTM C 33) that has a Density = 129.3 lb/yd3
dry-rodded density of 1742 kg/m3 (108.7 lb/ft3), a bulk specific Check solid volume, per lb/yd3:
gravity (saturated surface dry) of 2.75, and an absorption of Cement 2.03 ft3
1.2%. The mixture should have a void content of at least 20% Water 2.43 ft3
and a compressive strength of 14 MPa or 2000 psi at 28 days. No. 8 aggregate 17.14 ft3
The pervious concrete will be proportioned for w/c = 0.38, Total 21.60 ft3
which has been selected as a stable paste for this example. Volume of voids = (27 21.60) = 5.4 ft3
No fine aggregate will be used in the mixture. Percent voids = 20.00
Mass of aggregate (Ma) per m3 (yd3); The calculated mixture proportions should be checked
Ma = 1742 0.99 = 1725 kg (dry) in the laboratory by trial batch and adjusted as required.
= 1725 1.012= 1746 kg (SSD) In addition, it is recommended that trial batches include
Ma = 108.7 0.99 x 27 = 2906 lb (dry) two additional mixtures with 30 kg/m3 (50 lb/yd3) more and
= 2906 1.012 = 2941 lb (SSD) 30 kg/m3 (50 lb/yd3) less cement. These mixtures should
Solid volume of aggregate per m3 (yd3)(Va); also include the appropriate adjustments in: 1) water to
Va = 1746 /2750 = 0.635 m3 produce the required w/cm; and in 2) aggregate to maintain the
Va = 2941/(2.75 62.4) = 17.14 ft3 required percent voids. Generally, achieving the required void
From Fig. A6.3, the percent paste by volume is 16.5 when content and percolation rate with a stable paste are of greater
the voids equal 20% and the material is well-compacted. importance than compressive strength of the mixture.

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ACI 211.

Guide for Selecting Proportions

Chapter 4Proportioning computations (SI units), Table 2.1Comparison of consistency

in the range of 0.25 to 0.40 or higher. Examples of such

3.4Selecting water-cementitious materials ratio

Table A1.1Comparison between computed batch APPENDIX 2LABORATORY TESTS

By the addition of manufactured sand.

A2.4Concrete mixture tests

struction applications can be proportioned using the first

A3.6.2.5 Coarse aggregate contentFor any NMSA,

Step 7Determine the trial water volume, VW, from = 0.40 m3 f

VW = VP w/(c+p) / [1 + w/(c+p)] The value of VP is:

VW = (4.22 1.3)/(1 + 1.3) = 2.39 ft3

sufficient water to the batch so as to increase the RCC mois-

Example 2An example of a flat roof tile mixture using

APPENDIX 5CONCRETE MASONRY UNIT

Fig. A5.1Aggregate analysis graph: normal weight.

Table A5.1Fineness modulus (FM) by mass and volume

Fig. A5.2Aggregate analysis graph: fine texture intermediate weight.

Fig. A5.3Aggregate analysis graph: lightweight.

Table A5.2Comparison of gradings for aggregates with equal

Table A6.1Effective b/bo values

air-entrained. No research has been conducted on resistance

incorporated to increase compressive strength and to reduce A6.5Percent voids

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