Selection of Material:

The quality and characteristics of concrete mainly depends on the quality of materials used. Materials chosen for concrete must conform to required specifications depending on strength of concrete. Fresh cement of approved quality should be used and stored properly to prevent deterioration. Aggregate used should be well graded, organic matter, free from silt, and other undesirable impurities. Water to be used for concreting should be potable, free from all impurities. Many times admixtures are used to improve various properties of concrete. Admixture selected should be such that it should not have any adverse or deteriorating effect on other materials and on concrete as a whole.