BLEEDING OF

CONCRETE
MINIMIZE BLEEDING, MAXIMIZE
STRENGTH

What is Bleeding

Problems caused by
Bleeding

Method to reduce
Bleeding

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 WHAT IS BLEEDING
OF CONCRETE?

Bleeding in concrete refers to the

phenomenon where water within the
concrete mix moves to the surface before
the concrete has set, leading to several
potential issues that can compromise the
integrity, durability, and appearance of the
concrete structure.

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PROBLEMS CAUSED BY
BLEEDING OF CONCRETE

[1]. Loss of Homogeneity and Strength:

As water segregates and rises to the surface,

it carries fine particles with it, leading to a
reduction in the homogeneity of the
concrete mix. This segregation can result in
areas with different densities and
compositions, leading to a decrease in the
overall strength of the concrete.

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PROBLEMS CAUSED BY
BLEEDING OF CONCRETE cont.

[2]. Formation of Laitance:

The accumulation of water on the surface

can mix with cement particles to form a thin,
weak layer known as laitance. This layer is
porous and can significantly reduce the
surface durability and aesthetic appeal of
the concrete.

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PROBLEMS CAUSED BY
BLEEDING OF CONCRETE cont.

[3]. Reduced Bond Between Concrete

and Reinforcement:

The segregation of water can lead to a

reduced bond between the concrete and the
reinforcement bars. A strong bond is
essential for the structural integrity of
reinforced concrete structures, and any
reduction in this bond can lead to structural
weaknesses.

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PROBLEMS CAUSED BY
BLEEDING OF CONCRETE cont.

[4]. Increased Permeability and

Shrinkage:

Excess water moving to the surface can

leave channels and voids within the
concrete once it evaporates. This increases
the concrete's permeability, making it more
susceptible to water ingress and related
problems such as freeze-thaw damage.
Additionally, the drying process can lead to
increased shrinkage, causing cracks and
other defects.
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PROBLEMS CAUSED BY
BLEEDING OF CONCRETE cont.

[5]. Delayed Surface Finishing and Cold

Joints:

The presence of excess water on the surface

can delay finishing operations. Moreover, if
new concrete is poured atop a layer that has
begun to set (but is still bleeding), it can lead
to cold joints, where the two layers do not
bond properly, affecting the structure's
integrity.

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METHODS TO REDUCE
BLEEDING IN CONCRETE

Proper Proportioning of the Mix:

Adjusting the mix to lower the water-cement

ratio and increase the fines content helps
reduce bleeding. A lower water-cement ratio
means less free water available to segregate,
while more fines can absorb excess water
and help maintain homogeneity.

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METHODS TO REDUCE
BLEEDING IN CONCRETE cont.

Using Well-Graded and Angular

Aggregates:

These aggregates improve the packing

density of the mix, reducing the spaces
through which water can move upwards.

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METHODS TO REDUCE
BLEEDING IN CONCRETE cont.

Using Admixtures:

Admixtures like air-entraining agents

introduce tiny air bubbles that can absorb
some of the bleed water, water-reducing
agents decrease the need for water, and
retarders slow down the setting time,
allowing for more water to be used up in
hydration rather than bleeding out.

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METHODS TO REDUCE
BLEEDING IN CONCRETE cont.

Proper Compaction and Vibration:

Compacting the concrete through vibration

helps to eliminate entrapped air and excess
water, reducing the potential for bleeding.
This ensures a denser, more homogeneous
mix.

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METHODS TO REDUCE
BLEEDING IN CONCRETE cont.

Avoiding Overworking and Retempering:

Overworking the surface can bring more

water to the surface, and retempering
(adding water to the mix after it has started
to set) increases the water content, thereby
increasing bleeding. Both should be avoided.

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METHODS TO REDUCE
BLEEDING IN CONCRETE cont.

Providing Adequate Cover and Curing:

Proper curing methods help to prevent the

rapid evaporation of water from the surface,
reducing the risk of bleeding. Adequate
cover protects the surface from wind and
sun, which can accelerate evaporation and
bleeding..

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"Seal the deal,
not the bleed:
Perfect your
mix, protect
your build."

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www.concretefunda.com