Concrete is a composite material widely used in construction due to its durability, strength, and

versatility. Its properties can be divided into fresh concrete properties and hardened concrete
properties. Here is an overview of key properties in each category:

Fresh Concrete Properties

1. Workability: The ease with which concrete can be mixed, placed, compacted, and
finished. Measured by slump test, flow table test, and compaction factor test.
2. Consistency: Indicates the degree of wetness or fluidity of the concrete mix. Influences
the workability and is controlled by water-cement ratio.
3. Setting Time: The time taken for concrete to transition from a fluid state to a solid state.
Initial setting time is the period during which concrete remains workable, and final
setting time is when concrete fully hardens.
4. Segregation: The separation of coarse aggregate from the cement paste or water. Leads
to non-uniformity and weak spots in the concrete.
5. Bleeding: The process where water rises to the surface of freshly placed concrete.
Excessive bleeding can weaken the surface layer and lead to durability issues.

Hardened Concrete Properties

1. Compressive Strength: The capacity of concrete to withstand loads that tend to

compress it. Typically measured at 28 days after mixing using cube or cylinder samples.
2. Tensile Strength: The capacity of concrete to withstand loads that tend to pull it apart.
Concrete has relatively low tensile strength, often reinforced with steel.
3. Flexural Strength: The ability of concrete to resist bending. Important for structural
elements subjected to bending forces like beams and slabs.
4. Elasticity: The measure of concrete's ability to deform elastically under load. The
modulus of elasticity is a key parameter, which influences deflection and crack width in
structural elements.
5. Durability: The ability to withstand environmental conditions without significant
deterioration. Factors affecting durability include freeze-thaw resistance, chemical
resistance, and permeability.
6. Shrinkage: The reduction in volume of concrete as it dries and hardens. Can lead to
cracking if not properly managed.