Question

For what reason is it taken that the nominal maximum size of aggregate may be as large as possible?

• A. Larger the maximum size of aggregate more the cement required and so higher the strength
• B. Larger the maximum size of aggregate smaller is the cement requirement for a particular water cement ratio and so more economical the mix.
• C. Larger the maximum size of aggregate,lesser are the voids in the mix and hence also lesser the cement required.
• D. Larger the maximum size of aggregate, more the surface area and better the bond between aggregates and cement, and so higher the strength.

Answer 1

The correct option is B Larger the maximum size of aggregate smaller is the cement requirement for a particular water cement ratio and so more economical the mix.

For a particular water cement ratio, larger is the size of aggregate less is the requirement of cement . However as the aggregate size increases the compressive strength decreases.