Cement concrete is a synthetic construction material obtained by mixing cement, water and some other inert materials. In the plastic state, the mixture becomes hard as rock when allowed to set. By properly adjusting the proportions of the various ingredients, concrete with sufficient compressive strength for various uses can be produced. The strength of concrete depends mainly on its ingredients, their relative proportions and the manner in which it is mixed and placed.
Because of its high strength, it is used extensively for construction of roads, heavy structural member-like columns, gravity dams, etc., and also for foundations.
In addition to its strength, concrete also possesses other qualities such as high durability, better appearance, ease of construction, greater fire resistance and economy.
As plain concrete is weak in tensile strength, reinforcing with steel is done to increase the tension carrying capacity.
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