Bleeding
The migration of water to the surface of freshly placed concrete. Excessive bleeding weakens the surface and creates a porous top layer.
Caused by excess water, poor gradation, or insufficient fines. Mitigated by lowering w/c, improving gradation, or adding mineral admixtures.
Aggregate passing the 4.75 mm IS sieve — sand. Fills voids between coarse aggregates and contributes to workability.
The separation of coarse aggregate from cement paste in fresh concrete. Causes honeycombing and weak spots.
The ratio of the weight of water to the weight of cement in a concrete mix. The single most important factor controlling strength and durability.