Q.1 Explain Transportation of Concrete?

Transportation of concrete refers to the process of moving freshly mixed concrete

from the mixing site to the construction site. Proper transportation is crucial to
maintaining the workability, consistency, and quality of concrete. The method of
transportation depends on factors such as distance, time, and project requirements.
Common methods include:
1. Manual Transport – Using head pans or wheelbarrows for short distances.
2. Bucket and Crane – Used for high-rise buildings and large-scale projects.
3. Transit Mixers – Rotating drum trucks used for long-distance transport.
4. Pumps – Suitable for large-scale projects, ensuring continuous placement.
5. Belt Conveyors & Chutes – Used for horizontal and inclined transportation.
Proper handling and timely placement prevent segregation and loss of strength,
ensuring durable construction.
Q.2 Explain Workability of Concrete
Definition:
Workability of concrete is the property that determines how easily fresh concrete
can be mixed, transported, placed, compacted, and finished while maintaining its
homogeneity.
It is a key factor in ensuring that concrete achieves its desired strength and
durability without segregation or excessive bleeding.
Importance of Workability:
1. Ease of Mixing and Handling – Well-workable concrete is easier to mix
and transport.
2. Proper Placement and Compaction – Ensures the concrete can be placed
in molds or forms without excessive effort.
3. Prevention of Segregation and Bleeding – Prevents separation of
aggregates and excessive water on the surface.
4. Better Surface Finish – Results in a smooth, uniform finish, which is
essential for aesthetic and structural quality.
5. Adequate Strength and Durability – Proper workability ensures that
concrete is properly compacted, reducing voids and enhancing its strength.
Factors Affecting Workability:
 1. Water-Cement Ratio – Higher water content increases workability but may
reduce strength.
2. Aggregate Shape and Size – Rounded aggregates improve workability,
while angular aggregates reduce it.
3. Admixtures – Chemical and mineral admixtures like plasticizers enhance
workability.
4. Cement Content – Higher cement content increases cohesiveness,
improving workability.
5. Temperature and Weather Conditions – Higher temperatures cause rapid
evaporation of water, reducing workability.
Measurement of Workability:
Several tests are used to determine workability:
1. Slump Test – Measures the consistency and flowability of concrete.
2. Compaction Factor Test – Determines the degree of compaction required.
3. Vee-Bee Consistometer Test – Measures the time taken for concrete to
change shape under vibration.
Q.3 Physical Tests (Field Tests) Carried out on a bag of
Cement

Physical tests (field tests) carried out on a bag of cement help ensure its quality
before use in construction. These tests are simple, on-site checks that do not require
laboratory equipment. Some common field tests for cement include:
1. Checking Manufacturing Date
o Cement loses strength over time. Fresh cement (not older than 3
months) should be used.
2. Color Test
o Good quality cement has a uniform grey color with a greenish shade.
3. Lumps Test
o The cement should be free from hard lumps, which indicate moisture
absorption and reduced strength.
4. Temperature Test
o When inserting a hand into a bag of cement, it should feel cool, not
warm. Heat indicates hydration due to moisture.
5. Float Test
o A pinch of cement sprinkled into water should sink and not float,
indicating proper composition.
6. Smell Test
o There should be no earthy smell. A strong earthy odor indicates the
presence of excess clay or silt.
7. Strength Test (Hand Test)
o A small amount of cement rubbed between fingers should feel smooth.
A rough texture may indicate impurities.
These field tests provide a quick assessment of cement quality before detailed
laboratory analysis
Q.4 Explain Curing of Concrete?
Curing of Concrete refers to the process of maintaining adequate moisture,
temperature, and time to allow concrete to achieve its desired strength and
durability. Proper curing ensures that the hydration process of cement continues
effectively, preventing cracks, shrinkage, and surface defects.
Methods of Curing Concrete
1. Water Curing
o Ponding: Used for flat surfaces like slabs.
o Sprinkling: Keeps the concrete moist by spraying water.
o Wet Coverings: Burlap, hessian, or sand is used to retain moisture.
2. Membrane Curing
o Applying liquid curing compounds (wax-based, resin-based) to form a
moisture-retaining layer.
3. Steam Curing
o Used in precast concrete production to accelerate strength gain.
4. Plastic Sheet Covering
o Covers the concrete to prevent moisture loss.
5. Internal Curing
o Lightweight aggregates or water-absorbing materials provide internal
moisture.
Importance of Curing
• Enhances strength development.
• Prevents cracks due to shrinkage.
• Improves durability and resistance to weathering.
• Reduces permeability and increases water tightness.
The curing period depends on factors such as cement type, environmental
conditions, and concrete mix design. Typically, curing lasts for at least 7 to 14
days, but 28 days is ideal for maximum strength development.
Q.5 Explain Creep in Concrete?
Creep in concrete refers to the gradual and time-dependent deformation
(strain) of concrete under sustained load. This means that when a constant load
is applied to concrete over a long period, it slowly continues to deform, even if the
load remains unchanged.
Causes of Creep in Concrete
1. Moisture Movement – Loss of water from the cement paste due to drying
shrinkage or internal redistribution affects the deformation.
2. Microstructural Changes – The reorganization of cement gel particles
under sustained stress contributes to creep.
3. Sustained Load – The magnitude and duration of the applied load
significantly impact the amount of creep.
4. Temperature & Humidity – High temperature and low humidity accelerate
creep due to increased moisture loss.
Types of Creep
1. Basic Creep – Occurs in a sealed environment where no moisture exchange
happens with the surroundings.
2. Drying Creep – Happens when concrete is exposed to air and loses moisture,
leading to additional deformation.
3. Autogenous Creep – Occurs in high-strength, low-water concrete due to
self-desiccation.
Effects of Creep
• Deflection of Beams & Slabs – Excessive creep may cause noticeable
sagging.
• Loss of Prestress in Prestressed Concrete – Reduces the effectiveness of
prestressing forces over time.
• Cracking in Concrete Structures – Uneven creep may lead to structural
cracks.
How to Reduce Creep?
• Use low water-cement ratio to improve concrete strength.
• Use high-strength aggregates to resist deformation.
 • Proper curing to ensure adequate hydration and strength development.
• Reduce applied loads and avoid excessive stress

Q.6) Explain Properties of Reinforcing Steel

Reinforcing steel (rebar) is a critical component in reinforced concrete structures,

providing tensile strength to complement concrete’s compressive strength. Its
properties can be categorized into mechanical, physical, and chemical
characteristics.

1. Mechanical Properties
These define how reinforcing steel behaves under load and stress:
• Yield Strength: The stress at which steel undergoes permanent deformation.
Common grades include 250 MPa, 415 MPa, and 500 MPa.
• Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS): The maximum stress the steel can
withstand before breaking, usually higher than the yield strength.
• Elongation: The percentage increase in length before fracture, indicating
ductility. Higher elongation ensures better flexibility and seismic resistance.
• Modulus of Elasticity: A measure of stiffness, typically around 200 GPa,
indicating how much steel deforms under stress.
• Fatigue Strength: The ability to withstand repeated loading and unloading
cycles without failure.

2. Physical Properties
These describe the inherent characteristics of reinforcing steel:
• Density: Approximately 7850 kg/m³, which affects the weight and handling
of reinforcement in structures.
• Thermal Expansion: Reinforcing steel has a thermal expansion coefficient
similar to concrete (~12 × 10⁻⁶/°C), preventing differential expansion and
reducing cracking.
• Bonding with Concrete: The ribbed surface of rebar improves its adhesion
to concrete, ensuring effective load transfer.
 • Corrosion Resistance: Steel can corrode in aggressive environments, which
can be mitigated by coatings such as epoxy or galvanization.

3. Chemical Properties
The composition of reinforcing steel affects its strength, durability, and corrosion
resistance:
• Iron (Fe): The primary component.
• Carbon (C): Enhances strength but reduces ductility.
• Manganese (Mn): Improves toughness and wear resistance.
• Silicon (Si): Enhances strength and durability.
• Sulfur (S) & Phosphorus (P): Impurities that can make steel brittle if
present in high amounts.
• Chromium (Cr), Nickel (Ni), and Copper (Cu): Present in corrosion-
resistant rebars.

4. Special Types of Reinforcing Steel

• Epoxy-Coated Rebar: Used in marine and corrosive environments.
• Stainless Steel Rebar: Offers superior corrosion resistance.
• Galvanized Rebar: Zinc-coated to resist rust.
• Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Rebar: Non-metallic, corrosion-resistant
alternative.
Q.7 Explain Compaction of Concrete?
Compaction of concrete is the process of removing air voids from freshly poured
concrete to achieve maximum density and strength. Proper compaction ensures
that the concrete is durable, strong, and resistant to cracks.

Importance of Compaction
1. Increases Strength: Air pockets reduce concrete strength; compaction
eliminates them.
2. Enhances Durability: Well-compacted concrete resists weathering,
abrasion, and chemical attacks.
3. Improves Bonding: Ensures better adhesion between concrete and
reinforcement bars.
4. Reduces Permeability: Minimizes water absorption, preventing corrosion
of reinforcement.
5. Prevents Honeycombing: Eliminates voids that weaken the structure.

Methods of Compaction
1. Manual Compaction (For small-scale work)
• Rodding: Using a rod to push concrete into corners and remove air pockets.
• Tamping: Using a wooden or metal tamping tool to press concrete.
• Ramming: Used in dry mixes for pavements.
2. Mechanical Compaction (For large-scale projects)
• Internal Vibrators (Needle Vibrators): A vibrating needle is inserted into
the concrete to remove air.
• Surface Vibrators (Screed Vibrators): Used for compacting thin slabs and
pavements.
• Formwork Vibrators: Attached to the formwork to compact concrete inside
molds.
• Vibrating Tables: Used for precast concrete production.
Precautions During Compaction
• Avoid excessive vibration, which can cause segregation (separation of
aggregates and cement paste).
• Ensure even distribution of vibration to avoid weak spots.
• Maintain the correct water-cement ratio; too much water leads to
honeycombing.

Q.8) Explain Constituents of Cement and Its

Classification/Types of Cement?
Cement is a key binding material used in construction. It is composed of various
raw materials and is classified into different types based on composition and
application.
Constituents of Cement
The primary chemical compounds in cement contribute to its strength and setting
properties:
1. Major Chemical Compounds (Bogue’s Compounds)
• Tricalcium Silicate (C₃S) – 50-60%
o Provides early strength (1-7 days).
o Generates high heat of hydration.
• Dicalcium Silicate (C₂S) – 15-30%
o Contributes to long-term strength.
o Generates less heat of hydration.
• Tricalcium Aluminate (C₃A) – 5-10%
o Reacts quickly with water, causing initial setting.
o Responsible for early heat generation and sulfate attack susceptibility.
• Tetracalcium Aluminoferrite (C₄AF) – 5-15%
o Influences color and setting properties.
o Reduces clinker temperature during production.
2. Other Constituents
• Gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O) – 3-5%
 o Controls setting time and prevents flash setting.
• Magnesium Oxide (MgO) – < 5%
o Excess can cause cracks due to expansion.
• Sulfur Trioxide (SO₃) – < 3%
o Affects setting time and durability.
• Alkalis (Na₂O & K₂O)
o Can cause alkali-aggregate reaction (AAR), leading to expansion and
cracks.

Classification / Types of Cement

Different types of cement are used based on structural and environmental
requirements.
1. Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC)
• Grades: 33, 43, and 53 (Based on compressive strength in MPa at 28 days).
• Uses: General construction, buildings, bridges, and pavements.
2. Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC)
• Contains pozzolanic materials like fly ash.
• Advantages: Improved durability, less heat of hydration, better resistance to
chemical attacks.
• Uses: Marine structures, dams, and sewage works.
3. Rapid Hardening Cement (RHC)
• Composition: Higher C₃S content for early strength.
• Uses: Road repairs, precast concrete.
4. Extra Rapid Hardening Cement
• Sets faster than RHC by adding calcium chloride.
• Uses: Cold weather concreting.
5. Low Heat Cement
• Low C₃S and high C₂S to reduce heat of hydration.
 • Uses: Massive structures like dams and foundations.
6. Sulfate Resistant Cement
• Low C₃A content to resist sulfate attacks.
• Uses: Sewage treatment plants, marine structures.
7. High Alumina Cement
• Contains bauxite for high early strength and heat resistance.
• Uses: High-temperature applications like refractory works.
8. White Cement
• Low iron content for a white appearance.
• Uses: Decorative works, tiles, and architectural structures.
9. Colored Cement
• Made by adding pigments to white cement.
• Uses: Decorative flooring, wall finishes.
10. Air Entraining Cement
• Contains air-entraining agents to improve workability and frost resistance.
• Uses: Cold weather concreting.
11. Expansive Cement
• Expands slightly upon setting to prevent shrinkage cracks.
• Uses: Grouting, repairing structures.
12. Hydrophobic Cement
• Contains water-repellent additives for moisture resistance.
• Uses: Storage in humid environments.
Q.9) Formwork for Slab, Beam, and Column or Explain
Formwork for RCC elements?
Formwork is a temporary or permanent mould used to shape and support fresh
concrete until it gains sufficient strength. The formwork system should be strong,
rigid, and able to withstand the weight of the wet concrete and any construction
loads.

1. Formwork for Slab

Slab formwork supports horizontal concrete surfaces and consists of several
components:
Components of Slab Formwork:
• Sheathing (Decking): The surface that directly contacts the concrete (e.g.,
plywood, steel plates).
• Joists (Battens or Runners): Horizontal members that support the
sheathing.
• Props (Shoring or Posts): Vertical supports (timber, steel, or aluminum).
• Beams (Girders): Large horizontal members supporting joists.
• Soffit Formwork: Bottom form that holds the slab’s weight.
Procedure for Slab Formwork:
1. Marking and Leveling: Ensure proper alignment and level of the supports.
2. Erecting Props and Supports: Install vertical props at the required spacing.
3. Fixing Joists and Beams: Place beams to support the formwork panels.
4. Laying the Sheathing: Secure the top surface form to prevent leakage.
5. Applying Release Agent: Prevents adhesion between concrete and
formwork.
6. Checking Levels and Alignment: Ensure the slab form is even and properly
aligned.
Removal (Stripping) Time:
• Props for Slab ≤ 4.5m span: Removed after 7 days.
• Props for Slab > 4.5m span: Removed after 14 days.
2. Formwork for Beam
Beam formwork provides a mold for horizontal structural members (beams). It
should be strong enough to hold the concrete weight and reinforcement.
Components of Beam Formwork:
• Side Shuttering: Vertical boards forming beam sides.
• Bottom Formwork (Soffit Form): Supports the bottom of the beam.
• Props and Bracing: Vertical supports with diagonal bracing for stability.
• Bearers (Ledgers): Horizontal supports for the beam's bottom form.
Procedure for Beam Formwork:
1. Set up bottom formwork (soffit) at the correct height.
2. Place vertical side formwork and secure it with ties and supports.
3. Ensure adequate propping to bear the weight.
4. Apply a release agent to prevent sticking.
Removal Time:
• Side formwork: Removed after 2-3 days.
• Bottom formwork: Removed after 7-14 days, depending on beam span.

3. Formwork for Column

Column formwork is designed to hold vertical concrete members, ensuring proper
shape and alignment.
Components of Column Formwork:
• Sheathing (Panels): Forms the vertical face of the column.
• Stiffeners (Walers or Soldiers): Horizontal supports preventing bulging.
• Ties or Clamps: Keep the formwork panels together.
• Bracing (Diagonal Supports): Provides stability against lateral forces.
• Base Plate: Distributes the column’s load on the ground.
Procedure for Column Formwork:
 1. Mark column position on the foundation or slab.
2. Assemble vertical formwork panels.
3. Fix clamps/ties to maintain shape.
4. Provide bracing for stability.
5. Check alignment and plumb.
6. Apply a release agent before pouring concrete.
Removal Time:
• Column formwork: Removed after 24-48 hours, but lateral supports should
remain longer if necessary.

Key Considerations for Formwork Design

• Strength: Must withstand concrete pressure and external loads.
• Rigidity: Prevents deformation under load.
• Reusability: Should be cost-effective for multiple uses.
• Leakage Prevention: Joints should be tight to prevent concrete leakage.
• Easy Removal: Should allow safe and easy stripping without damaging
concrete.
Q.10 Explain Precast Concrete?
Precast concrete is a type of concrete that is manufactured in a controlled factory
environment, cast into specific shapes using molds, and then transported to the
construction site for assembly. This method is widely used in modern construction
due to its efficiency, durability, and high-quality control.

Key Features of Precast Concrete

1. Manufactured Off-Site
o Precast elements are produced in a factory setting, ensuring consistent
quality and controlled curing conditions.
2. Faster Construction
o Since precast components are made in advance, they can be quickly
installed at the site, reducing project timelines.
3. Durability & Strength
o Precast concrete is highly durable, resistant to weather conditions, and
can withstand heavy loads, making it ideal for bridges, buildings, and
infrastructure projects.
4. Cost-Effective
o Reduces labor costs and minimizes material waste, making it a cost-
efficient solution compared to traditional on-site concrete casting.
5. Variety of Applications
o Used in walls, beams, columns, floors, stairs, tunnels, and even
architectural elements like decorative panels.

Types of Precast Concrete Elements

1. Structural Precast Elements
o Beams, columns, slabs, and walls used in commercial and residential
buildings.
2. Architectural Precast
o Decorative panels, cladding, and facades for aesthetic appeal.
 3. Infrastructure Precast
o Bridges, tunnels, railway sleepers, and drainage pipes.
4. Modular Precast Units
o Precast staircases, manholes, septic tanks, and retaining walls.

Advantages of Precast Concrete

• Quality Control – Factory production ensures uniformity and higher quality.
• Faster Installation – Speeds up the construction process.
• Sustainability – Reduces on-site waste and promotes recycling.
• Weather-Independent – Can be manufactured year-round without delays
due to bad weather.
• Improved Safety – Reduces on-site labor and minimizes accident risks.

Challenges of Precast Concrete

• Higher Initial Costs – Requires investment in molds, transportation, and
cranes.
• Transportation Issues – Large elements may be difficult to transport and
handle.
• Design Limitations – Modifications are difficult once elements are cast.