What is water–cement ratio and why is it important? | Q & A

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Nilesh Dhankhara

I know to understand this is must as this cause huge failure for buildings and also could lead to disaster so needs to understand more.

Engineers Heaven

What is Water–Cement Ratio?

The water–cement ratio (w/c ratio) is the ratio of the weight of water to the weight of cement used in a concrete mix.

Water–cement ratio= Weight of water​ / Weight of Cement

Example:
If 50 kg of cement is mixed with 25 kg of water:

25/50 = 0.50

Why is Water–Cement Ratio Important?

Because it directly controls the strength, durability, and quality of concrete.

1. Effect on Strength

  • Lower w/c ratio → Higher strength

  • Higher w/c ratio → Lower strength

Reason:
Excess water creates capillary voids after evaporation, which weakens concrete.

2. Effect on Workability

  • Higher w/c ratio → More workability

  • Lower w/c ratio → Less workability

 

The Forum post is edited by Engineers Heaven Jan 29