Durability of Concrete

The durability of concrete refers to the extent to which the material is capable of resisting deterioration from exposure to service conditions. Concrete is also strong and fireproof. Ordinary structural concrete to be exposed to the elements must be watertight and weather resistant. Concrete subject to wear, such as floor slabs and pavements, must be capable of resisting abrasion.

The major factor controlling the durability of concrete is its strength. The stronger the concrete, the more durable it is. As we just mentioned, the chief factor controlling the strength of concrete is the water cement ratio. The character, size, and grading i.e., distribution of particle sizes between the largest permissible coarse and the smallest permissible fine, of the aggregate also have important effects on both strength and durability. Maximum strength and durability will still not be attained unless the sand and coarse aggregate you use consist of well graded, clean, hard, and durable particles free of undesirable substances. The relationship of these properties is shown in Figure 2.