3(b). Segregation in concrete
Segregation can be defined as the separation of the constituent materials of concrete. A good concrete is one in which all the ingredients are properly distributed to make a homogeneous mixture. There are considerable differences in the sizes and specific gravities of the constituent ingredients of concrete. Therefore, it is natural that the materials show a tendency to fall apart.
Segregation may be of three types
- Coarse aggregate separating out or settling down from the rest of the matrix.
- Paste separating away from coarse aggregate.
- Water separating out from the rest of the material being a material of lowest specific gravity.
A well made concrete, taking into consideration various parameters such as grading, size, shape and surface texture of aggregate with optimum quantity of waters makes a cohesive mix. Such concrete will not exhibit any tendency for segregation. The cohesive and fatty characteristics of matrix do not allow the aggregate to fall apart, at the same time; the matrix itself is sufficiently contained by the aggregate. Similarly, water also does not find it easy to move out freely from the rest of the ingredients.
The conditions favorable for segregation are:
- Badly proportioned mix where sufficient matrix is not there to bind and contain the aggregates
- Insufficiently mixed concrete with excess water content
- Dropping of concrete from heights as in the case of placing concrete in column concreting
- When concrete is discharged from a badly designed mixer, or from a mixer with worn out blades
- Conveyance of concrete by conveyor belts, wheel barrow, long distance haul by dumper, long lift by skip and hoist are the other situations promoting segregation of concrete
Vibration of concrete is one of the important methods of compaction. It should be remembered that only comparatively dry mix should be vibrated. It too wet a mix is excessively vibrated; it is likely that the concrete gets segregated. It should also be remembered that vibration is continued just for required time for optimum results. If the vibration is continued for a long time, particularly, in too wet a mix, it is likely to result in segregation of concrete due to settlement of coarse aggregate in matrix.