Concrete (Concretus [Latin]; to grow together)

Concrete is a composite material that consists

essentially of a binding medium in which are
embedded particles or fragments of aggregates.
Concrete = Filler + Binder

With Portland cement as a binder, concrete

composition can be depicted as below
Portland cement
+ water (& admixtures) cement paste
+ fine aggregate mortar
+ coarse aggregate concrete

Good Concrete
The ingredients of the good and bad concrete are entirely the same
and the difference is due entirely to know-how
A good concrete has to be satisfactory in its;
1.
2.

Fresh state
Hardened state

1. Fresh state
Consistence of the mix should be such that concrete can be
compacted easily by any available means
Concrete should be cohesive enough in its fresh state so as to be
transported and placed without segregation

2. Hardened State
Generally concrete of higher compressive strength has more desirable
qualities. Hence compressive strength is usually ample to assure
quality construction.