Getting Buried In Concrete To Explain How It Works
Veritasium・2 minutes read
Cement and concrete are essential building materials, with concrete being the most widely used man-made substance globally, produced at a rate of 500 kilograms per person annually. The strength, durability, and composition of concrete have evolved over time, from primitive methods like heating limestone to create quicklime to modern Portland cement, with key factors like aggregate size, mixing consistency, and hydration crucial for its quality and performance.
Insights
- Concrete, the most widely used man-made material globally, is made from cement and aggregate, with strict requirements for components like sand and gravel to ensure strength and durability.
- The development of concrete, from primitive forms by the Romans to modern Portland cement, highlights the importance of consistent mixing, hydration, and the addition of materials like volcanic ash or Coke to enhance properties such as strength, self-healing, and setting time.
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Recent questions
What is the difference between cement and concrete?
Cement is the glue, while concrete is cement plus aggregate (gravel and sand).
How is the strength of concrete tested?
Concrete samples are tested for strength at 7, 14, and 28 days after pouring to ensure they meet requirements.
What is the most commonly used cement today?
Portland cement, discovered in the 1840s, is the most commonly used cement today, known for its superior strength.
What are the essential components of concrete?
Aggregates like sand and gravel are essential components of concrete, with strict requirements for size and shape to impact strength.
How does concrete harden?
Concrete hardens through cement hydration with water essential for crystal formation.
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