RYAN KINGA

Problem 1.1 Name several of the admixtures that are used in concrete mixes. What is the
purpose of each?

1. Superplasticizers The National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP) 2015 provides the
recommended diameters for reinforcing bars in Section 5.5.3.1 (titled "Reinforcement Bars"),
which may be found on pages 5-7. This section presents comprehensive information
regarding the range of diameters, encompassing the minimum and maximum sizes.

2. Air-entraining admixtures, meeting the specifications of ASTM C260 and C618

mainly employed to improve concrete's ability to withstand freezing and thawing and to
resistance to the deicing salts' damaging effects. The chemicals that entrain the air cause the
combining water and foam, resulting in billions of tiny air bubbles that are
integrated with the concrete. Water enters the air bubbles in concrete when it freezes.
releasing the concrete's pressure. The water can escape after the concrete thaws.
of the bubbles, resulting in less braking than if air entrainment hadn't occurred
been applied.

3. Retarding admixtures are employed to lower temperature and delay the concrete's curing
rises. They are made up of different sugars, acids, or sugar derivatives. A little concrete
Truck drivers carry sugar sacks with them to toss into the concrete in the event that they are
delayed or stuck in traffic. Admixtures that retard are especially
helpful in situations involving huge pours and potential temperature spikes. Additionally, they
extend the concrete's flexibility to allow for improved blending or bonding of subsequent
pours. Additionally, retarders can reduce how quickly cement hydrates on exposed concrete
surfaces. constructed surfaces to create visually appealing exposed aggregate finishes

Problem 1.2 What is Poisson’s ratio, and where can it be significant in concrete work?

The width and narrowest point that a material can encounter during stretching or compression are
determined by Poisson's ratio. Knowing this helps engineers better understand how concrete will
change under stress, which helps them build strong, stable structures. It also helps predict the
behavior of concrete in relation to other building materials, including steel.

Problem 1.3 What factors influence the creep of concrete?

Poisson's ratio tells us the widest and narrowest point a material can experience as it is stretched
or compressed. Engineers can create strong, stable buildings by using this knowledge to better
understand how concrete will alter under stress. Additionally, it aids in forecasting how concrete
will behave in connection to steel and other building components.

Problem 1.4 What steps can be taken to reduce creep?

Because a lower water-to-cement ratio in concrete results in a denser mix that is less prone to
distortion, it is essential to limit creep. Through strengthening the internal structure, superior
aggregates with high stiffness and low porosity reduce creep. A robust microstructure that stops
creep from occurring in properly cured concrete is another crucial component. Slag and fly ash are
two other cementitious elements that can be utilized to increase durability and decrease creep.
Using stronger concrete and applying loads sparingly—either by delivering them gradually or by
RYAN KINGA

waiting until the concrete has aged—are some strategies for minimizing creep. In the end, controlling
environmental variables such as temperature and humidity may assist reduce the tendency for creep
in concrete structures.

Problem 1.5 What is the effect of creep in reinforced concrete columns that are subjected to
axial compression loads?

Under continuous compression pressures, reinforced concrete columns gradually elongate due to
creep. This steady stretching weakens the column's load-bearing capacity and increases the risk of
misalignment and breaking. These modifications may impair the structure's strength and safety. It is
crucial to employ appropriate design and construction techniques in order to avoid these concerns.

Problem 1.6 Why is silica fume used in high-strength concrete? What does it do?

The use of silica fume strengthens and extends the life of high-strength concrete. Filler reduces the
possibility of water absorption and damage by filling in the tiny gaps in the concrete mixture and
raising density. This increases the concrete's resistance to severe conditions and heavy loads.

Problem 1.7 Why do the surfaces of reinforcing bars have rolled-on deformations?

Reinforcing bars, also known as rebar, are coated with deformations such as ridges and ribs to
improve their adhesion and grip with the surrounding concrete. The deformations on the rebar serve
the purpose of preventing it from slipping or shifting when subjected to stress, thereby ensuring its
secure placement within the concrete. The robust connection between the rebar and the concrete
guarantees the effective enhancement of the concrete structure's strength and stability.

Problem 1.8 What are “soft metric” reinforcing bars?

A type of reinforcing bar, referred to as "soft metric," is manufactured to conform to international

standards for metric measurements. These bars are called "soft" bars because they have
somewhat different dimensions and mechanical properties compared to regular bars, frequently
being more flexible and simpler to manipulate. These bars are used in concrete construction to
assure compatibility with other building materials and procedures by meeting specific metric
criteria.

Problem 1.9 What are the three factors that influence the magnitude of the earthquake load on
a structure?

The magnitude of an earthquake directly affects the intensity of ground shaking, and the forces
exerted on buildings. Increased ground vibrations from more powerful earthquakes lead to higher
levels of stress on structures.
RYAN KINGA

The strength of shaking experienced by a building is determined by its distance from the epicenter
of the earthquake. Structures in close proximity to the epicenter will endure greater loads and more
vigorous shaking compared to those located at a greater distance.
The soil or ground beneath a structure can impact an earthquake's ability to either weaken or
amplify its waves. Soils that are harder and more stable generally result in less amplification and
lower earthquake loads. On the other hand, softer soils have a tendency to intensify shaking and
impose more strains on the building.
Standards are essential to guarantee compatibility with different construction materials and
techniques.

Problem 1.10 Why are epoxy-coated bars sometimes used in the construction of reinforced
concrete?

Epoxy-coated bars are employed in reinforced concrete construction to enhance the longevity and
durability of the building. The epoxy coating acts as a protective barrier that prevents the reinforcing
steel from undergoing rusting or corrosion. It is particularly essential in environments such as
bridges, highways, and coastal buildings where concrete is exposed to moisture, chemicals, or
salts. Epoxy-coated bars enhance the durability and robustness of the concrete by providing a
protective layer that prevents steel corrosion. This results in reduced maintenance expenses and
an extended lifespan for the construction.

Problem 1.11 What is the diameter and cross-sectional area of a #5 reinforcing bar in U. S.
Customary?

A #5 reinforcing bar (rebar) in U.S. Customary units has a nominal diameter of 5/8 inch. The cross-
sectional area of a #5 rebar is roughly 0.31 square inches.

Problem 1.12 Look in the NSCP-2015 the list of recommended reinforcing bar diameters from
smallest to the largest. Cite the page number and section of the NSCP-2015 where it can be
found.

The National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP) 2015 specifies the suggested sizes for
reinforcing bars in Section 5.5.3.1 (entitled "Reinforcement Bars"), located on pages 5-7. This
section provides a thorough overview of the various diameters, including both the smallest and
largest sizes.