Water demand vs grading – which grading needs the least water for the same workability? For a given target workability, which type of aggregate grading generally requires the minimum mixing water?

Introduction / Context:
Water demand in concrete is strongly influenced by the total surface area of solids to be wetted by paste. For the same cement content and target workability, optimizing aggregate grading to reduce surface area helps achieve the slump with less water, thereby lowering the water–cement ratio and improving strength and durability.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Same cement content and mineralogy.
• Aggregate shape and texture are comparable; focus is on grading effect.
• Workability specification (e.g., slump) is held constant for comparison.

Concept / Approach:
A well-graded aggregate pack reduces voids and minimizes the specific surface area to be coated by paste. Less surface area means less paste and water are required to achieve lubrication and flow. Conversely, very fine or poorly graded aggregates increase surface area and water demand, causing higher w/c ratios if cement is not increased or if admixtures are not used.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Relate workability demand to surface area to be wetted by paste.Recognize that least surface area → least water for the same flow.Therefore, select the grading with the least surface area.

Verification / Alternative check:
Empirical mix-design methods (e.g., F.M. adjustment, optimized packing curves) consistently show reduced water demand with well-graded blends of sand and coarse aggregate.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Greater surface area increases water demand; total weight is not the controlling factor when composition is fixed.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming that adding fines always improves finish: it can raise paste demand and shrinkage if not balanced by coarser fractions.

Final Answer:
The grading with the least surface area for the given cement and aggregates