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Concrete Problems, Causes,
Solutions & Prevention

DPWH Region II : April 18,2013
By : Engr John Manansala
Technical Sales & Services Group Manager
Lafarge Republic Inc,.
What is Concrete ?
Concrete is a composite material that consists

essentially of a binding medium within which are
embedded particles or fragments of aggregate.
What is Concrete : Microstructure
Hetoregenous Phase :
Consists of the cement and
sand (mortar content of
concrete)
Aggregate Phase : Large
coarse material in the
concrete ranges from (3/8 to
G1….).
Interfacial Phase : A thin
layer around the large
aggregate with a thickness
of around 10 – 50 microns.
Aggregate Phase : Large coarse material in the concrete

ranges from (3/8 to G1….).
This phase is predominantly responsible for the
following concrete properties :
Unit Weight
Elastic Modulus
Dimensional Stability of concrete (Shrinkage)
These properties are normally dictated to the large
extent the physical properties of the material
rather than its chemical characteristics.
It is the strongest among the phases and therefore
usually has no direct influence on the ultimate
strength of normal concrete.
Hetoregenous Phase : Consists of the cement and

sand (mortar content of concrete)
This is also known as the Mortar of the concrete
mix.
Performance of this phase is normally dictated by
the type of cement used in the concrete.
This also dictates the concretes durability and
ability to resist weathering.
It is most of the time of the same or higher
strength than the aggregate.
Interfacial Phase/Zone : A thin layer around the large

aggregate with a thickness of around 10 – 50 microns.
This is weakest section of concrete in which most failures
occurs.
• Not much information is available about the
interfacial transition zone of concrete
• However this the weakest among all the phases
and therefore this dictates the concretes ultimate
strength.
Micro Structure of Hydrated Cement Paste :

• Angular particles with typical size of 1 – 50 microns.
• Produced by pulverizing Clinker + Small amounts of
Gypsum + Cementitious Materials.
• Normally composed of compounds forming the principal
chemical complexes.
Complexes Amount Range Function
C3S – Tri Calcium Silicate
45 – 60% Early Day Strength
(Alite)
C2S – Di Calcium Silicate
15% - 30% Later Days Strength
(Belite)
Setting Time/Early
C3A – Tri Calcium Aluminate 6% - 12%
Day Strength
C4AF – Tetra Calcium
6% - 8%
Alumnio Ferrite
TO TOTAL 100%
Outline :
1. In Fresh Concrete : 2. In Hardened Concrete :

Concrete Slump Concrete Cracking
Segregation in Concrete Concrete Scaling
Cold Joints Concrete Dusting
Overmixing Blistering of Concrete
Bleeding Discoloration of Concrete
Concrete Setting Bug Holes
Yield Discrepancies Honey Combs
Sand Streaking
Strength Problems
In Fresh Concrete : Concrete Slump
What is Concrete slump ?
Slump simply defined is a

measure of the consistency
of fresh concrete.
In the early days of concrete
technology this was also
used as a measure of
concrete’s quality.
There are also three types
of concrete slump.
However concrete is no longer just a mix of the

three primary ingredients (Cement + Aggregates
(Coarse & Fine) + Water)
Today’s Modern concrete is composed of :
The 3 Primary Ingredients + Admixtures +
Polymers + Fibers + SCM’s
All of which affect slump in their own way.
0.4
w/c
Water Slump
0.4
w/c
Plasticized Slump
What Affects Concrete Slump :

Aggregates Grading
SCM’s (fly-ash, Slag….)
Type of Cement (Type I, IP………..)
Admixtures (Retarders, Accelerators…..)
100
BAAC
80
60
40
20
0
1" 3/4" 1/2" 3/8" #4 #200
What is Concrete Slump ?
Types of Slump :
Only True slump must be
used.
Even on high slump concrete
the center from the top of the
cone must be visible and
should must be measured
from that point.
Tolerance of Slump (ASTM C94, Item 6) :

6.1 Unless other tolerances are included in the project specifications, the following
shall apply :
6.1.1 When the project specifications for slump are written as a “maximum” or
“not to exceed” requirement :
Specified Slump
Tolerance
3in (75mm) or less If more than 3in (75mm)
Plus 0 0
Minus 1.5 in (40mm) 2.5 in (65mm)
This option is to be used only if : The addition of water is permitted on the job
and such addition does not increase the water to cement ratio above the maximum
permitted by the specifications.
Tolerance of Slump (ASTM C94, Item 6) :

6.1.2 When the project specifications for slump are not written as a “maximum” or
“not to exceed “ requirement :
For Specified Slump of : Tolerance
2 in (50mm) and less +/- 0.5 in (15mm)
More than 2” – 4”(50 to 100mm) +/- 1 in (25 mm)
More than 4” (100mm) +/- 1.5” (40mm)
6.2 Concrete shall be available within the permissible range of slump for a period
of 30 mins starting either on arrival at the job site or after initial slump
adjustment permitted in 11.7, whichever is later. The first and last ¼ cu.yd or
¼ cu.m. discharge are exempt from this requirement. If the user is unprepared
for discharge of the concrete from the vehicle, the producer shall not be
responsible for the limitiation of the minimum slump after 30 min have elapsed
starting either on arrival of the vehicle at the prescribed destination or at the
requested delivery time, whichever is later.
Tolerance of Slump (ASTM C94, Item 6)

Adjustment of slump can be done on site provided :
maximum allowable w/c ratio (based on trial mix) has not
been exceeded (if water is to be used)
If allowed admix dosage has also not been exceeded (max
dose is also derived from trial mix).
Measurement of slump must be done within 30 minutes upon
arrival on site.
Retesting of slump must be done after slump adjustment and
within 30 minutes.
If truck mixer is onsite longer than 30 minutes due to slow
unloading or with site issues, failure of the concrete to attain
slump is no longer the responsibility of the producer.
In Fresh Concrete : Segregation
What is Segregation ?
Segregation occurs
when the coarse and
fine aggregate, and
cement paste,
become separated.
Three types of Segregtion :
Separation of aggregates and settling at the bottom,
Paste separating away from the coarse aggregates
Water separating out of from the rest of the mix. (Excessive
bleeding)
Segregation can affect :

Concretes (Strength, Durability and
Finish)
When can segregation occur :

During Transport
Mixing (incomplete mixing, excess water)
Compaction (Over vibration )
Conditions Favorable for Segregation :

Badly Proportioned mix : insufficient matrix to bind and
contain the aggregates.
Insufficiently mixed concrete with excess water content
Dropping of concrete from heights.
When concrete is discharged from a badly designed mixer
or with worn out blades.
Conveyance of concrete via conveyor belts, wheel barrow
over long distances.
How can you prevent segregation.

Improper water to cement ratio (use the right water to cement, or
use plasticizing admixtures to attain higher slumps).
Use the specified speed of the transit mixer to mix the concrete for
at least two minutes prior to discharge.

Never pour concrete higher than 1.5 meters.
Always pour new concrete on the face of concrete already in place.


Do not use concrete vibrators to spread concrete.
In Fresh Concrete : Cold Joints
What is a cold joint?
Cold joints are formed

primarily between two
batches of concrete where
the delivery and placement Full knitting is not
of the second batch has been achieved between
delayed and the initial placed the two batches
even when using
and compacted concrete has vibrators.
started to set.
Cold joints formation

unlike cracks are not
gaps but are merely
seams.
These are usually linear.
Generally cold joints do not pose any structural
concerns for compression members, however
for tensile, torsional and shear loads cold joints
can cause the concrete to fail.
How to prevent cold joints from happening.

If concrete batches are delayed from one another or
for unusually long periods of time, placed concrete
must be vibrated every 15 minutes. This should keep
the concrete live till the next batch. However if the
concrete has started to initially set then vibration
must be stopped.
Proper scheduling of pouring and concrete batch
deliveries must be done.
Concrete spreading must be done systematically
considering batches on site and structural members
to be poured.
How to repair Cold Joints.

Introduction of concrete dowels prior to setting of
concrete.
Thorough cleaning of the joint face prior to placement
of additional concrete.
Sandblasting to expose coarse aggregate to increase
bond.
Bedding grout worked into the surface of the joint
immediately prior to placing additional concrete.
In Fresh Concrete : Over Mixing
Overmixed Concrete?
Mixing is done to allow proper distribution

of all components of the mix achieve a
uniform appearance.
However if concrete is ovemixed this can
compromise concrete quality.
Increased concrete mix temperatures.
Tends to grind aggregates to smaller particles
affecting PSD and slump.
Decreases air entrainment
Reduces concrete strength
Overmixed Concrete?
When is concrete overmixed ?

When using a transit mixer as the
mixing equipment,
70-100 revolutions (speed as
designated by manufacturer to mix all
components. (exceeding this can
cause overmixing).
Revolutions above 100 should be on
aggitating speeds (again as specified
by the manufacturer, usually 6 to 18
revolutions per minute).
Overmixed Concrete?
When is concrete overmixed ?

When using a central mixer.
Mixing time in a central mixer with
less than 0.76 cu.m (1 cu.yd) shall
not be less than 1 min. and every
cu.yd of increase 15 secs. Shall be
added.
Once loaded into the agitator truck,
concrete mixed must be discharged
at least before 300 revolutions is
met.
Plasticized concrete can have a life expectancy of 4 hours, if
this is exceeded concrete initial set may start to occur,
causing concrete to be stiff and looked overmixed.
In Fresh Concrete : Concrete Bleeding
What is Concrete Bleeding ?
Bleeding in Concrete is also

sometimes known as water
gain.
This is a particular form of
segregation.
This occurs primarily because in the concrete
mix water has the lowest specific gravity and
after consolidation water is pushed up to the
surface as the denser materials settles.
Bleedings are primarily observed due to :

Highly wet mixes (high w/c ratio)
Badly proportioned mixes (not enough fine material)
And insufficiently mixed concrete.
In thin members like concrete pavements, impervious sub-
base materials, lack of drainage for excess water.
Defects caused by bleeding (excessive)

Formation of laitance (cement paste comes up with the
water, forming a weaker surface).
Creation of bleed channels – (in delayed bleeding, this is no
longer filled and can increase concretes permeability).
With flaked aggregates this water can be trapped on the flat
surface. This can create voids after water evaporation.
Voids caused by entrapped water

due to excess bleeding, resulting
into :
Weaker bond of aggregate
and mortar.
Lower strengths
More permeable concrete.

Bleeding is not totally harmful to concrete if the rate

of bleedwater = rate of evaporation.
Bleed rate increases with time (upto 1 hour) then
decreases.
When Early bleeding occurs during concretes plastic
state this is actually good for the concrete.
Delayed bleeding – this occurs after the concrete has
lost its plasticity this causes due harm to concretes
final physical properties.
Prevention of Bleeding in Concrete :

Using the right mix, proper PSD amounts of fines to coarse.
Minimal w/c ratio.
Use of chemical admixture to attain slump or flow.
(plasticized slump and not water slump)
Use of SCM’s specifically finely divided pozzolans (Fly-ash
etc.)
Air entraining agents.
Use of a finer cement with low alkalai content. (Rich mixes
are less succeptible to bleeding than lean mixes.)
Do not over vibrate : Controlled vibration can actually reduce
bleeding.
In Fresh Concrete : Concrete Setting
What is Concrete Setting ?
Concrete setting are in two

stages :
Initial Set – This is when the concrete
has started to loose its plasticity,
reduction in slump or has started to
loose its workability.
Final Set – This occurs when concrete
has totally lost its plasticity, this is also
the phase in which strength starts to
develop.
Both properties of setting time can be
determined using a penetrometer test
as per ASTM C403
Factors that Affect Concrete Setting Times :

Hydraulic Cements Setting Time.
Type of Chemical Admixture used.
Type of SCM’s used.
Ambient Temperature.
Temperature of Raw Materials.
Compatibility of cement and Chemical Admixtures.
Problems that may occur in concrete setting time?
Delayed Set
Fast Set
False Set
Delayed Set :
Occurs when the concrete has exceeded the Initial
Setting Time (as per trial mix).
Normally Caused By :
Overdose of Admix (retarders).
Unbalanced cement chemistry.
Low Ambient temp. (not an issue in the
Philippines)
Concrete with delayed setting will still harden.
However proper care must taken before removal of
forms.
Fast Set :
Occurs when the concrete has stiffened faster than that
seen in the trial mix.
Incompatibility of cement and Admixture
Unbalanced cement chemistry.
High temperature of raw materials
Insufficient dose of admix.
Fast Setting Concrete can cause :
Rapid loss of slump.(workability)
Consolidation problems (Lower strength and durability)
False Set :
Occurs when the concrete has stiffened faster than that
seen in the trial mix.
However with additional mechanical mixing slump, or
flow is regained with no addition of water or admixture.
Slow liberation of heat from the hydration of the cement.
False set rarely happens in ready mix concrete due to
constant mixing by the transit mixer.
In Fresh Concrete : Yield Discrepancies
What is Yield Discrepancies ?
Concrete Yield :
It is defined as the volume of
freshly mixed concrete from a
known quantity of ingredients.
Volume of freshly mixed
unhardened concrete in a given
batch is determined by the
formula below (As per ASTM
C138)
This must be taken from three
different trucks.
Concrete Yield :
As per ASTM C94 : Item 3 Basis of Purchase :
Hardened concrete in place may be about 2% less than its

volume in a freshly mixed state due to reduction in air content,
settlement and bleeding, decrease in volume of cement and
water, and drying shrinkage.
Why do Yield Problems Occur ?

Most yield discrepancies is either real or perceived.
Yield discrepancies can only be resolved by the method
described in ASTM C94 and C138.
Apparent concrete shortages are sometimes caused by :
Miscalculation of Form volume or slab thickness (variation
in form domensions).
Deflection or distortion of the forms due to weight of
concrete.
Irregular subgrade, placement over granular fill, and
settlement of subgrade prior to placement.
Why do Yield Problems Occur ?

Overyield however :
An indication of too much air content in the mix.
In sufficient filling of forms.
Excess of aggregates.
How to prevent Yield Discrepancies :

Check concrete yield in accordance to ASTM C138 early in
the job.
Measure formworks accurately. Near the end of large pours,
carefully measure the remaining volume so the order for the
last 2 or 3 trucks can be adjusted to provide the required
quantity of concrete.
How to prevent Yield Discrepancies :

When using blueprints to measure or estimate concrete
volumes. Include a 2 - 4% allowance.
Use slipforms when ever possible, this will provide
dimensional stability in form works.
Construct and brace forms to minimize deflections and
distortion.
For slabs on grade, accurately finish and compact the
subgrade to the proper elevation.
Outline :
1. In Fresh Concrete : 2. In Hardened Concrete :

Concrete Slump Concrete Cracking
Segregation in Concrete Concrete Scaling
Cold Joints Concrete Dusting
Overmixing Blistering of Concrete
Bleeding Discoloration of Concrete
Concrete Setting Time Bug Holes
Yield Discrepancies Honey Combs
Sand Streaking
Strength Problems
In Hardened Concrete : Cracking
Concrete Cracking :
Before Hardening
Plastic Constructional Early Frost Damage

Movements
Shrinkage Formworks
Settlement Sub Grade
Not a Concern in
the Philippines
Concrete Cracking : Before
Hardening
A. Plastic Shrinkage :
Occurs when the rate of evaporation of the
water on the surface of fresh concrete is
greater than the rate it can be replaced by
A
bleed water. (Figure A)
This will result in volume change and
shrinkage. (Figure B)
With the restraint of lower concrete area due
to the sub-base, tensile stress is introduce
resulting into shallow cracks of varying depth.
(Figure B)
B
These cracks are normally perpendicular to
the wind direction. (But can also be random
due to wind swirls. (Figure C)
These cracks also tends to be wide and long C
but do not go through the slab vertically or
horizontally. (Figure C)
Hardening
B. Plastic Settlement :
Usually occurs in reinforced concrete slabs. (On fill and suspended).
Occurs when to much water has been used in the mix. (More than the required
amount to properly hydrate the cement particles. (Very High w/c ratio)
High amount of bleeding, resulting into volume change. With the resistance of the
steel bars to settlement concrete surface cracks.
Hardening
How to Prevent Plastic Shrinkage and Settlement Cracks ?
Use the proper water to cement ratio :
Do not pour during peak temperature hours.
Minimize adding water to regain slump or workability. (Avoid Re tempering of
concrete)
Do not over finish the surface.
Use curing compounds or misting to minimize water evaporation.
Plastic Shrinkage Cracking Settlement Cracking

Hardening
Formworks/Sub-base Movements “
Occurs when the formworks or sub-base yields under the weight of the
How to Prevent :
concrete. (When initial set has occurred).

Usually Formworks should
directional goes havethe
along enough
failuresupport.
direction of the form works or

sub-base Formworks support should be placed on solid natural grade.
Proper compaction of sub base.
Do not over vibrate while pouring.
Formworks
bulging.
Sub base
failure.
Concrete Cracking :
After Hardening
Physical Chemical Thermal Structural
Drying Alkalai Silica Internal Temp. Creep

Shrinkage Reaction Gradients
Accidental
Crazing Corrosion of Overloading
Reinforcement
Concrete Cracking : After
Hardening
Drying Shrinkage :
Due to current concrete mixing practices this is the most common crack that can
be observed in the construction sites.
Concrete slabs or concrete structures with wide areas are the most susceptible
to this type.
This is caused by volume change in the concrete due to evaporation of excess
water.
Happens when final set of concrete has occurred. Perpendicular to the longer
span.
Hardening
How to prevent Drying Shrinkage Cracking:
Use the proper slump or workability to adequately place the concrete
therefore avoiding re-tempering.
As early as possible provide contraction joints in reasonable intervals (No
longer than 30 times the concrete thickness).
Considering using, chemical and mineral admixtures to reduce water
requirements.
Additional cut should

have been made
here.
Hardening
Physical – Crazing:
Similar cause to plastic shrinkage but more superficial and shallow.
How to Prevent :
Caused by :
Use the proper water to cement ratio :
To early finishing/over finishing (causing the cement paste to form on the
Minimize adding water to regain slump or workability. (Avoid Re tempering
surface)
of concrete)
Excess bleeding (using of “puro” to absord excess water)
Avoid using pure cement on slab surfaces.
This type of crack usually has no effect on structural performance and durability.
Do not over finish the surface.
Use curing compounds or misting to minimize water evaporation.
Hardening
Chemical – Alkalai Silica or
Alkalai Carbon Reaction:
Occurs when active mineral constituents of
some aggregates in the concrete mix react with
the alkalai hydroxides in concrete.
This is triggered with the ingress of water in
concrete structures. (Caused by high concrete
permeability)
This in-turn dissolves the alakali’s in the
concrete allowing it to react with the
aggregates silica or carbonate content,
creating expansive gels. Inducing tensile
stresses in the concrete.
This type of crack affects structural integrity.
Expansive
Gels
Aggregate
Hardening
Corrosion of Steel Reinforcement :
This is triggered with the ingress of water in concrete structures. (Caused by high
How permeability)
concrete to Prevent :

Use the
Formation proper
of rust water to
therefore cement
occurs ratio
when : (a
the lower
water w/cinto
gets reduces concretes
contact with the steel
bars. permeability).
Use of chemical and mineral admixture to improve concrete density by
This type of crack affects structural integrity.
lowering porosity.
Resulting into cracking

Hardening
Thermal Cracking:
Caused by high internal temperature in concrete. (during hydration and curing)
Difference in Internal concrete temperature and surface concrete temperature is >
15oC
Usually occurs within a few days after the stripping of the formworks.
Susceptibility of a concrete structure to have Thermal cracking is directly
proportional to its dimensions.
Hardening
Thermal Cracking:
Visual appearance of these cracks on massive pours (structures with a minimum
dimension of 4 ft) are off a checkerboard or patchwork pattern.
For concrete slabs and pavements normally look like drying shrinkage cracks,
perpendicular to the longer dimension.
Checker board pattern Patchwork pattern

Hardening
Thermal Cracking:
Visual appearance of these cracks on massive pours (structures with a minimum
dimension of 4 ft) are off a checkerboard or patchwork pattern.
For concrete slabs and pavements normally look like drying shrinkage cracks,
perpendicular to the longer dimension.
Crack depths remains on the surface and
restrained by the concrete core.
Hardening
Thermal Cracking:
• Peak Temp. @ +/- 3 days
Heat of Hydration of Concrete
80 • 2 Phases:
- Heating-up phase
(surface cracking)
Temp Diff. < 15 C
Tem p ( o C)
-Cooling-down phase
(Interior cracking)
Temp Diff. < 10 C
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
Time (days)
Hardening
How to Prevent Thermal Cracking:
Curing is key in preventing concrete thermal cracking. (at least till the 14
day)
Use of mineral admixtures (fly-ash, slag…………) to minimize heat of
hydration.
Use of curing compounds and misting to keep the concrete moist
regulating concretes internal temperatures.
Massive pours use of Type II, IV and V Portland Cement or Type IP
cement
Hardening
Creep and accidental
overloading:
Occurs when settlement or loss of support in the
concrete structure has occurred.
Evolves in time and mostly visual displacement
can be seen (can also appear as early as 1 day
after pouring).
Appearance is generally located and aligned on
the point of failure of the support or point of
application of stress or load.
Either a shear, bending, compression or torssional
failure.
In Hardened Concrete : Concrete Scaling
What is Concrete Scaling ?
Scaling is local flaking or

peeling off of a finished
concrete surface.
Normally is starts as a localized small patch
which later may merge and extend to large
exposed areas.
Light Scaling does not expose the coarse
aggregate.
Moderate Scaling exposes the aggregate
and may involve loss of up to 1/8 to 3/8” (3
to 10mm) of the surface mortar.
Severe Scaling : more surface has been lost
and the aggregate is clearly exposed and
stands out.
Why do Concrete Surfaces Scale.

Due to Deicing salts and freeze thaw
effects (not a concern in the Philippines).
Finish of the concrete surface while bleed
water is still on the surface of the
concrete.
Insufficient curing. Resulting in a weak
wearing surface .
Overworking Overfinishing) of the
surface, resulting into a high water to
cement ratio on the surface.
How to Prevent Scaling

Provide proper curing of the surface by
using liquid membrane curing compounds.
Do not perform finishing works while
bleed water is still present on the fresh
concrete surface.
Do not use a vibrating screed for high
slump concrete. This is like over finishing
the concrete.
How to Repair Scaled Concrete

Surfaces are only as strong as the bond it
creates with the existing surface.
Surface must be cleaned thoroughly,
removal of any loose material is utmost
importance. (Use of sand blasting, chisel,
high pressure washer will remove all
unsound material).
Placement of thin bonded resurfacing
material must be placed.
Portland Cement Concrete
Latex Modified concrete
Polymer modified cementitious based
repair mortar.
In Hardened Concrete : Concrete Dusting
What is Concrete Dusting ?
Concrete dusting occurs when there is formation of

loose powder resulting from the disintegration of the
surface of hardened concrete.
This is also known as Chalking.
Its characteristics.
Powders under any kind of
traffic.
Can easily be scratched with a
nail or even by sweeping.
Why does dusting occur ?

Dusting occurs when the wearing surface of concrete
is weak. This weakness is normally caused by.
When finishing works when
bleed water is still present on the
surface.
Placement of concrete over a
non absorptive subgrade or poly-
ethelene vapor retarder. (Creates
over bleeding in the surface.)
Dusting occurs when the wearing

surface of concrete is weak. This
weakness is normally caused by.
Inadequate ventilation in enclosed
spaces.
Carbonation can occur while
concrete is curing due to the build
up of carbon dioxide from gasoline
engines powers (Vibrators, mixers
etc.)
Insufficient curing and protection of
the wearing surface.
How to Prevent Concrete Dusting :

Use the right w/c ratio to attain
workability.
Allow concrete to bleed prior to bull
floating.
Never sprinkle pure cement to absorb
excess bleed water. (use a water hose).
Do not use non absorptive subgrade
materials.
Use a curing compound to ensure
proper hydration and strength
development of the wearing surface.
How to Repair ?
Removal of all weak surface material by sandblasting
or using a high pressure washer.
Apply a commercially available surface hardener such
as sodium silicate (water glass).
Application of a latex material, epoxy sealers or
cement pain.
Wet Grinding of the weak surface to a durable
substrate. Then application of a top coat.
Application of floor covering.
In Hardened Concrete : Blistering of
Concrete
What is Blistering of Concrete ?
Concrete Blisters are hollow, low

profile bumps on the concrete surface.
Around 1 – 3 inches in diameter.
These are caused by the formation of
voids under the surface, making the
bond weak.
These are occasionally around 1/8”
thick.
Why do concrete blisters form.

This occurs when fresh concrete
surfaces are sealed by troweling
while the underlying concrete is
plastic and bleeding. (caused by a
rapid hardening surface)
When bleed water is trapped or
worked backed down by excessive
trowelling.
To much fines in the concrete mix
making the mix sticky. (or lack of
mixing).
Why do concrete blisters form.

Excessive vibration of a top
screed.
How to prevent concrete blisteting.
Be wary when the concrete surface
hardens before it normally would.
Never overwork the surface of
fresh concrete.
If rapid hardening is seen, protect
the surface with a polyethylene
sheet, this will prevent rapid
evaporation of bleed water.
In Hardened Concrete : Discoloration of
Concrete
What is Concrete Discoloration ?
Discoloration is the non uniformity of shade or hue

of a single concrete mix or a single concrete
placement.
These may take the form of
dark blotches, molted, gross
color changes in large areas of
the pour.
Why does Discoloration Occur ?

Changes in sources of fine aggregates and use of different
cements in a mix or single pour.
Insufficient mixing time of the concrete (can cause
inconsistency in the distribution of fines and cement
particles) arease with higher cement content will be whiter
than other areas.
Alkalai content of cement (high variations) will likely
cause concrete discoloration.
Inconsistent use of admixtures and SCM’s
Finihsing procedures that may vary the w/c ration of the
concrete surface.
How to Prevent ?
Type, kind and condition of formworks can influence
surface color as well, Forms with different rates of
absorption will cause surfaces with different shades.
Allow proper mixing of the concrete.
Eliminate trowel burning of the concrete. (using power
trowels)
Use the same cement and sand source for a single pour.
Evenly spray curing compounds.
In Hardened Concrete : Bug Holes
What Bug Holes in Concrete ?
Bug Holes are surface voids that

results from the migration of
entrapped air and sometimes water
to the interface surface of fresh
concrete and the formworks.
These normally occur in the
vertical portion of the concrete
structure.
Why do Bug Holes Form ?

Bug holes normally forms during :
consolidation, densification of concrete.
and during volume shrinkage.
Water tends to migrate up and form bleed water on the
surface, however air bubbles seek the nearest route to reach
pressure equilibrium.
In vertical forms the nearest route is towards the form
surface.
If the air bubbles are not forced up to the surface these
form bug holes.
Causes :
Improper consolidation or vibration.
Non Permeable forms and use of form releasing agents can cause
restrictions in the movement of Air bubbles.
Improper concrete mix design.
A sticky and stiff mix will generate more bug holes.
Prevention :
Proper consolidation : Vibration sets air bubbles and water in motion.
Using form releasing agents as specified by the manufacturer.
Mix Design – Workable and flowing (as required).
Well graded concrete.
In Hardened Concrete : Honeycombs
What are Honeycombs in Concrete ?
Honeycombs occur in concrete

when mortar fails to fill the
spaces in between coarse
aggregate particles.
What Can Cause Honeycombs ?
Improper consolidation (Vibration).
Incorrect Concrete Mix (To much coarse materials)
Placement of concrete already setting.
Gaps in the forms (allowing the mortar to flow out).
Improper aggregate sizes vs steel bar placement.
How to Prevent :
Ensure the mix has proper fines to fill all
voids between the coarse aggregates.
Use a mix appropriate to the situation.
Ensure the concrete is fully compacted
and consolidated.
Check all gaps in formworks.
How to Repair ?
Depending on extent or depth this must
be taken into consideration.
If small/shallow in extent – Patching
and epoxy application is sufficient.
How to Repair ?
If deep and penetrates to the level of
the reinforcement.
Section must be cut out and
replaced.
Seek approval of Structural
designer prior to any actions to be
taken.
In Hardened Concrete : Sand Streaking
What are Sand Streaks in Concrete ?
Sand Streaks : Are - Sand or gravel textured areas

lacking cement or streaks of exposed fine aggregate
that appear on the surface of formed concrete.
This normally only occurs in the vertical portion of
the pours
What Causes Sand Streaking ?

Excessive Bleeding along the form surface. – When bleed water rises
up it carries cement grains with them together with very fine sand
materials.
Escape or of grout from the concrete mix through leaks in the form (tie
locations and other fine gaps.)
Over vibration of harsh

concrete mixes.
Harsh (To wet of a mix
will cause excessive
bleeding).
How to Prevent Sand Streaking :

Reduce or eliminate form leakage, by making sure all panels are well
fitted and tie holes are properly protected.
Use properly graded aggregates particularly to the No.50 to 100 sieve
fraction. (Balance the mix using fine sand, this will reduce excess
bleeding).
Reduce water content instead use
Chemical Admixtures or SCM’s to
attain workability.
Control vibration of the concrete
follow the right procedure.
In Hardened Concrete : Strength Issues
Strength Issues in Concrete ?
What Constitute Low Cylinder

Strength ?
Concrete strength tests are used as a basis
of acceptance or Ready Mixed Concrete,
but must be :
Cured in standard Conditions as
required by a Standard (ASTM)
Tested at a specific time.
Normally 2 -3 samples are done.
Field cured cylinders must not be confused with cylinders used for
acceptance of concrete. Field Cured cylinders are used to check early
age of concrete in the structure prior to stripping of forms and
continue on construction activities.
What Constitute Low Cylinder Strength ?

Concrete strength tests are used as a basis of acceptance
or Ready Mixed Concrete, but must be :
Under Provisions of ACI 318 and 301 – It recognizes
that 2 out 100 cylinders will be low due to normal
variability. However.
There is a criteria for strength evaluation of
concrete cylinders.
No single test is lower than the specified
strength by more the 500 psi (3.5 mps), and
The average of three consecutive test equals
or exceeds the specified strength.
There is a criteria for

strength evaluation of
concrete cylinders.
No single test is lower
than the specified
strength by more the 500
psi (3.5 mps), and
The average of three
consecutive test equals or
exceeds the specified
strength.
If an average of three
consecutive tests in
sequence falls below the
specified strength, steps
must be taken to increase
the strength.
If a single test fails but the
average passes, proper
investigation must be done
to take into account the
cause of the failure
(Investigation also of the
structure must be done.
Why are compressive strengths low ?

Improper cylinder handling, curing and actual
testing.
Error in production.
Retempering on site to regain
slump/flow/workability (which has exceeded
designed w/c ratio and admix dosage)
Improper cylinder preparation. (None standard).
Improper equipment (Cylinder molds have
leaks…)
Improper finished and caps on the top and bottom
surface of the cylinders.
Impact during transportation. (This is a major
factor in lowering cylinder strengths)
In Place Concrete Strengths.

In Place concrete strengths will not be equivalent to concrete cylinder
tests. Why ?
Curing practices are different (Cylinders more controlled )
More variations are present when placing and consolidating
concrete. (Cylinder mold consolidation more precise).
This is recognized by ACI 318m that the cylinder strengths are just
an indicator of the potential strength in the in place concrete.
Why do you need to Measure In Place Concrete Strengths.
When Concrete cylinder testing as been proven to have failed. Or are
not in compliance of the requirements as outlined in ACI 318.
For shoring and form removals.
Post tensioning or early application of loads.

Why do you need to Measure In Place Concrete Strengths.
Exposure to fire or high temperatures.
When a lower designed concrete is poured.
When initial core samples have failed and structural members
require more time for curing.
How to Measure in place concrete strengths ?
By :
Penetration resistance test (ASTM C803)
Rebound Hammer Test (ASTM C805)
Core Test (ASTM C42)

How to Investigate In Place Concrete Strengths.
If only on set of cylinders was confirmed low or minimal variations
to the required design strength.
Additional testing with rebound hammer or probe results on
areas of concrete with passing cylinder samples.
If rebound or probe results also fail or inconclusive core testing
is required.
If multiple or all areas represented with the different sets of concrete
cylinders core sampling is required.
However use of rebound hammer to determine probable
locations for coring is also advised.

How to Investigate In Place Concrete Strengths. Precautions in testing.
Rebound Hammer : ASTM C805
Wet all surfaces for several hours or
overnight, because drying affects rebound
hammer (When curing in progress).
Don’t compare readings on concrete cast
against different areas. Concrete of
varying moisture content, curing stage,
different mass (structural dimensions).
This will affect N number values.
Don’t grind off the surface unless it is
soft, finished or textured.
Test structural slabs from the bottom.
Hammer is Calibrated with the Anvil

How to Investigate In Place Concrete Strengths. Precautions in testing.
Probe Penetration Resistance : ASTM C803
Probes should be at least spaced 7 inches
apart and not close to the edge of the
concrete.
Probes not firmly embedded in the
concrete should be rejected.
Develop a strength calibration curve for
the materials and conditions under
investigation.
Different size probes or a change in
driving force may be necessary for large
differences in strength or unit weight.
Accurate measurement of the exposed
length of the probe is necessary.

How to Investigate In Place Concrete Strengths. Precautions in
testing.
Core Testing ASTM C42 : Pre cautions.
Test at least three cores for each section.
Minimum diameter of at least 3.5 inches (85mm)
Obtain larger cores for concrete with aggregates of 1 inch and
larger.
Retain a length to diameter ratio of 1.5.
Trim edges properly of the cores.
Keep cap thickness under 1/8”
Use high strength capping materials (neoprene pad caps should
not be used).
Do not core samples from the top layers of columns, beams,
footings. This will likely be 10-20% weaker.
References :
ACI 309R-05 – Guide for Consolidation of Concrete
ASTM C94 – Standard Specification for Ready Mixed Concrete
Concrete Basics : A Guide to Concrete Practice.
NRMCA publications and documents : Concrete in Practice.
Portland Cement Association of America : Frech Concrete Properties
Geopolymer Concrete Mix.
ACI 546R-96 Concrete Repair Guide
Concrete Pavement Technical Fact
The Construction Civil
Assessment and Repair of Concrete Structures : Matther H. Banville, PE
Causes For Variation in Concrete Yield, Supernant, B.A. The concrete journal.
ASTM C138 – Standard Test Method for Unit Weight, Yield and Air Content of
Concrete.
Guide for Concrete Floor and Slab Construction, ACI 302
Slabs on Grade, Concrete Craftsman Series CCS-1, American Concrete Institute
References :
Concrete Slab Surface Defects, Causes, Prevention, Repair, ISI77, Portland
Cement Association , Skoike, IL.
Trouble Shooting Guide for Cocnrete Dusting, Concrete Construction, April
1996.
Significance of Tests and Properties of Concrete and Concrete Making
Materials, Steven H. Kosmatka. “Bleeding”
In Place Methods To Estimate Concrete Strengths, ACI 228 IR,
Non Destructive Tests, V.M. Malhorta, Chapter 30 in ASTM STP 196C,
Guide to Non Destructive Testing of Concrete, G.I. Crawford, Report FHWA-
SA-97-105, Sept. 1997,
In Place Strength Evaluations – Recommended Practice, NRMCA
Understanding Concrete Core testing, Bruce A. Suprenant, NMRCA
Publications.
ASTM C31, C39, C42, C805, ASTM Books of Standards.
Effect of Curing Condition on Compressive Strength of Concrete Test
Specimens, NRMCA Silver Spring, MD.
References :
Low Strength Tests? Maybe Not ! E.O. Goeb, Concrete Products,
Effect of Curing Conditions on Compressive Strength of Concrete Test
Specimens, NRMCA Publication 53,
Guide to Durable Concrete, ACI 201.2R
Scale Resistant Concrete Pavements, IS117.02P, Portland Cement Association.
Concrete Surface Blistering, Cause and Cure, Carl O. Peterson, Concrete
Construction.
Finishing Problems and Defects in Flatwork, J.C. Yeager, Concrete
Construction.
Discoloration Myths, Causes and Cures, Rech, D.P. Owl Rock Products.

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Concrete Problems, Causes,

Solutions & Prevention

Concrete is a composite material that consists

Aggregate Phase : Large coarse material in the concrete

Hetoregenous Phase : Consists of the cement and

Interfacial Phase/Zone : A thin layer around the large

Micro Structure of Hydrated Cement Paste :

1. In Fresh Concrete : 2. In Hardened Concrete :

Slump simply defined is a

However concrete is no longer just a mix of the

What Affects Concrete Slump :

Tolerance of Slump (ASTM C94, Item 6) :

Tolerance of Slump (ASTM C94, Item 6) :

Tolerance of Slump (ASTM C94, Item 6)

Segregation can affect :

When can segregation occur :

Conditions Favorable for Segregation :

How can you prevent segregation.

How can you prevent segregation.

Always pour new concrete on the face of concrete already in place.

How can you prevent segregation.

Cold joints are formed

Cold joints formation

How to prevent cold joints from happening.

How to repair Cold Joints.

Mixing is done to allow proper distribution

When is concrete overmixed ?

When is concrete overmixed ?

Bleeding in Concrete is also

Bleedings are primarily observed due to :

Defects caused by bleeding (excessive)

Voids caused by entrapped water

Bleeding is not totally harmful to concrete if the rate

Prevention of Bleeding in Concrete :

Concrete setting are in two

Factors that Affect Concrete Setting Times :

Hardened concrete in place may be about 2% less than its

Why do Yield Problems Occur ?

Why do Yield Problems Occur ?

How to prevent Yield Discrepancies :

How to prevent Yield Discrepancies :

1. In Fresh Concrete : 2. In Hardened Concrete :

Plastic Constructional Early Frost Damage

Settlement Sub Grade

Plastic Shrinkage Cracking Settlement Cracking

Physical Chemical Thermal Structural

Drying Alkalai Silica Internal Temp. Creep

Additional cut should

Resulting into cracking

Checker board pattern Patchwork pattern

Scaling is local flaking or

Why do Concrete Surfaces Scale.

How to Prevent Scaling

How to Repair Scaled Concrete

Concrete dusting occurs when there is formation of

Why does dusting occur ?

Dusting occurs when the wearing

How to Prevent Concrete Dusting :

Concrete Blisters are hollow, low

Why do concrete blisters form.

Why do concrete blisters form.

Discoloration is the non uniformity of shade or hue