CVC ReadyMix

Concrete is made up of three main ingredients: water, Portland cement, and aggregates. The ratio of the ingredients changes the properties of the final product, which allows the engineer to design concrete that meets their specific needs. Admixtures are added to adjust the concrete mixture for specific performance criteria. Water The water in the concrete mix should be clean and free of impurities. The amount of water relative to the amount of cement changes how easily the concrete flows, but also affects the final strength of the concrete. More water makes for easier flowing concrete, but also makes for lower strength concrete upon curing. Portland cement Cement hardens when it is mixed with water, which binds all of the ingredients together. Portland cement is the most common cement used. It is composed of alumina, silica, lime, iron, and gypsum. Small amounts of other ingredients are also included. Aggregates The majority of a concrete mixture is made up of coars...