Aggregates moisture management: which on-site stockpile practices help keep aggregate moisture content nearly constant for accurate concrete batching?

Introduction / Context:
Accurate water–cement ratio control demands predictable aggregate moisture. Poor stockpile practices cause random moisture swings, leading to inconsistent workability and strength.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Aggregates stored outdoors in open yards.
• Objective is uniform moisture prior to batching.

Concept / Approach:
Large plan area and limited height reduce internal drainage gradients; avoiding cone piles minimizes moisture stratification; a 24-hour stand time lets moisture equalize throughout the pile.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Adopt flat, well-drained bases with larger pile footprints.Restrict pile height to about 1.5 m to limit compaction and runoff channels.Avoid conical heaps to reduce edge drying and funnel drainage.Stabilize moisture by leaving piles for ~24 h before use.

Verification / Alternative check:
Ready-mix quality manuals and IS 2386 practices echo these measures to keep moisture predictable.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Each listed measure contributes to moisture uniformity; omitting any increases variability.

Common Pitfalls:

• Skipping moisture corrections in batching even after good stockpiling, defeating the purpose.

Final Answer:
all the above