Concrete technology — minimum water–cement ratio for workability What is the typical minimum water–cement (w/c) ratio required to obtain a workable concrete mix (assuming normal aggregates and no special admixtures)?

Introduction / Context:
Workability describes how easily concrete can be mixed, placed, and compacted without segregation. The water–cement ratio (w/c) is a primary lever affecting both workability and strength, so designers must balance these competing demands.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Ordinary Portland cement with typical fines content.
• Normal aggregates and standard grading.
• No high-range water reducer (superplasticizer) assumed.

Concept / Approach:
At very low w/c (≈0.30), paste is inadequate for lubrication, causing harsh mixes. Around w/c ≈ 0.40, mixes begin to achieve workable consistency with proper compaction. Higher w/c further increases flow but reduces strength and durability. Hence, a practical minimum for workability without admixtures is about 0.40.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Empirical mix design methods (e.g., widely used codes and handbooks) often start around w/c 0.40–0.50 depending on slump; 0.40 is a common lower bound without chemical admixtures.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 0.30: typically too low for workability without plasticizers.
• 0.50 or 0.60: workable but not minimum; they risk excess bleeding and lower strength.
• 1.00: impractically high; leads to segregation and poor properties.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming higher water always improves placement. Excess water harms strength, increases shrinkage, and reduces durability. Use admixtures or better grading to improve workability at lower w/c.

Final Answer: