What does the strength of concrete mainly depend on?

We need firm concrete to construct various modern projects, such as houses and roads. During construction, we should pay attention to some issues to ensure that there will be no quality problems within the planned time after the completion of the project. So what factors does the quality of concrete projects depend on? Let's take a look at it below.

We need firm concrete to construct various modern projects, such as houses and roads. During construction, we should pay attention to some issues to ensure that there will be no quality problems within the planned time after the completion of the project. So what factors does the quality of concrete projects depend on? Let's take a look at it below.

1. Cement strength and water-cement ratio

The strength of concrete mainly depends on the bond strength between cement paste and coarse aggregate. The bond strength depends on the strength of the cement paste. The higher the strength of cement paste, the higher the interface strength between cement paste and coarse aggregate. As for the strength of cement paste, it depends on the strength of the cement and the water-cement ratio. Our liquid and Flake type high-efficiency PCE(Polycarboxylate superplasticizer) is one of the commonly used admixtures in concrete. The main function is to reduce the water-cement ratio of concrete, thereby improving the strength and durability of concrete. 

2. Age

Under normal circumstances, the strength of concrete increases with age. It is faster in the first 7-14 days, and then gradually slows down. After 28 days, the strength growth is slower. During curing, concrete is prone to cracking due to hydration reaction (reaction between water and cement). Our PP fiber can significantly increase the tensile strength of concrete, thereby reducing the cracking of concrete when it is stressed, enhancing the impermeability of concrete, and improving the frost resistance of concrete.

3. Curing temperature and humidity

After pouring concrete, it is necessary to maintain the appropriate temperature and sufficient humidity to fully hydrate the cement to ensure the continuous development of concrete strength. Generally speaking, during natural curing, the watering and maintenance period for concrete made of silicate cement, ordinary cement, and slag cement shall not be less than 7 days, and other cement shall not be less than 14 days.

4. Construction quality

Construction quality is the basic factor affecting the strength of concrete. If there are phenomena such as inaccurate measurement, uneven mixing, improper transportation methods causing segregation, and loose vibration, the strength of concrete will be reduced. Therefore, the construction quality must be strictly controlled.