Size of Aggregate:

Based on the size, the aggregates can be classified as coarse aggregates and fine aggregates (i.e. sand). The aggregates of size > 4.75 mm are called as coarse aggregates and are available in 80, 40, 20, 10, 4.75 mm sizes.

The fine aggregates are those which are having particles of sizes < 4.75 mm. depending upon the fineness modulus the fine aggregates are categorized as coarse, medium and fine sand.

Comments

Using large size aggregates in concrete will result into reduction of cement and water requirement and will also reduce the degree of shrinkage of concrete. Smaller size of coarse aggregates is favored for the concrete used for thin members, heavily reinforced member and for high strength concrete. The concrete with large size of coarse aggregates is preferred for mass concrete.