Concrete Construction Handbook

A construction material composed of cement, fine aggregates such as sand and coarse aggregates which when mixed with water hardens with time is referred to as concrete. The study of properties of the concrete and its practical applications is referred to as concrete technology. During the construction of a building, concrete is used for the construction of foundations, columns, beams, slabs, and other load-bearing structures. Concrete is mixed and prepared in proportions with respect to cement quantity. The two types of concrete mixes are nominal mix and design mix. The nominal mix is used for normal construction works such as small residential buildings whereas for design mix concrete, the mix proportions are finalized based on various lab tests on cube or cylinder for its compressive strength. This book covers in detail some existent theories and innovative concepts revolving around concrete construction. It presents the complex subject of concrete construction in the most comprehensible and easy to understand language. This book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.