Effect of limestone aggregate type and water-cement ratio on concrete strength

This article investigates the effects of water-cement (w-c) ratio and coarse limestone aggregate type on compressive strength of concrete. In this study, Ceyhan (Adana) limestone produced in quarries was used as aggregate material, and its physical, chemical and mechanical properties were determined. The rock was classified due to uniaxial compressive strength, point load index, porosity and Schmidt hammer hardness test method. Concrete samples were produced using crushed limestone. Concrete mixes were designed to have a constant strength and workability for different aggregate gradation using the absolute volume method. Optimum water-cement ratio was determined using vibrating slump for the same concrete mixture proportions. Cylindrical concrete samples were prepared with these fresh mixtures. The concrete produced was cured at 7, 14 and 28 days in water to obtain its compressive strength. It was seen that the compressive strength of concrete depends upon water-cement ratio and aggregate size. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved