Volume Concrete LLC., is in the process of building an industry specific glossary and terms (jargon) related to our specific field. Some of these terms may be local, or have an etymology that dates to the Romans and the Egyptians who helped pave the way to todays Concrete jungle.
Concrete Glossary: 100 Essential Terms
Welcome to our extensive glossary of concrete terms! This resource is designed for contractors, engineers, and DIY enthusiasts to understand the language of concrete technology. Each term includes a definition, an internal link to a related article or tutorial on our site, and an external link to a trusted resource for further reading. Explore topics like self-healing concrete, LDCC, and more!
A
Admixture
A material added to concrete before or during mixing to modify its properties, such as workability, setting time, or durability.
Learn about concrete admixtures | External Resource: Cement.org
Aggregate
Inert materials like sand, gravel, or crushed stone mixed with cement and water to form concrete, providing bulk and strength.
Air-Entraining Agents
Additives that introduce tiny air bubbles into concrete, improving freeze-thaw resistance and workability.
See our tutorial on concrete mixing | External Resource: Cement.org
Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR)
A chemical reaction between alkali in cement and silica in aggregates, causing expansion and cracking in concrete.
B
Bacillus subtilis
A bacteria used in self-healing concrete to produce calcium carbonate, which fills cracks when activated by water.
Read our article on self-healing concrete | External Resource: ScienceDirect
Batching
The process of measuring and mixing concrete ingredients in specific proportions before pouring.
Bleeding
The separation of water from the concrete mix, rising to the surface and potentially weakening the top layer.
See our tutorial on preventing defects | External Resource: Cement.org
Blended Cement
Cement that combines Portland cement with supplementary materials like fly ash or slag to enhance properties.
Explore concrete composition | External Resource: Cement.org
C
Calcium Carbonate
A mineral produced by bacteria in self-healing concrete to fill cracks, mimicking natural limestone formation.
Learn about self-healing concrete | External Resource: Nature
Cement
The binding agent in concrete, typically Portland cement, that reacts with water to harden and hold aggregates together.
Read about concrete composition | External Resource: Cement.org
Chromatic Concrete
Concrete that changes color based on temperature or light, used for aesthetic or functional purposes.
Explore concrete innovations | External Resource: Concrete Construction
Compressive Strength
The ability of concrete to withstand compressive forces, typically measured in psi after 28 days of curing.
See our tutorial on testing concrete strength | External Resource: ACI
Concrete Block
A precast concrete unit, often reinforced with rebar, used for building walls and other structures.
Learn about concrete applications | External Resource: NRMCA
Conductive Concrete
Concrete that conducts electricity, often used for de-icing roads or grounding applications.
Corrosion
The rusting of steel reinforcement in concrete, leading to cracking and structural damage.
See our tutorial on preventing defects | External Resource: Cement.org
Cracking
The formation of fractures in concrete due to shrinkage, thermal changes, or structural stress.
Learn how to prevent concrete defects | External Resource: Cement.org
Curing
The process of maintaining moisture and temperature in concrete to ensure proper hardening and strength development.
Check our tutorial on curing techniques | External Resource: ACI
D
Durability
The ability of concrete to withstand environmental conditions, chemical attacks, and physical wear over time.
E
Efflorescence
A white, powdery deposit on concrete surfaces caused by the migration of salts due to moisture.
See our tutorial on preventing defects | External Resource: Cement.org
Exposed Aggregate
A concrete finish where the top layer is removed to reveal the aggregate, creating a textured, decorative surface.
Read about concrete finishes | External Resource: Concrete Network
F
Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
Concrete containing fibrous materials like steel, glass, or plastic to improve tensile strength and crack resistance.
Finish
The final surface treatment of concrete, such as troweling, stamping, or exposing aggregate for aesthetic or functional purposes.
Explore concrete finishes | External Resource: Concrete Network
Fly Ash
A byproduct of coal combustion used as a supplementary cementitious material to enhance concrete durability and reduce permeability.
Read about concrete composition | External Resource: Cement.org
Formwork
The temporary or permanent mold, often made of wood or metal, used to shape concrete as it sets.
See our tutorial on construction basics | External Resource: ACI
Freeze-Thaw Resistance
The ability of concrete to withstand repeated freezing and thawing cycles without cracking, often enhanced by air-entraining agents.
Learn about concrete durability | External Resource: Cement.org
G
Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC)
Concrete reinforced with glass fibers, offering high tensile strength and flexibility for architectural applications.
Green Concrete
Concrete made with recycled materials or sustainable practices to reduce its environmental impact.
Read about sustainable concrete | External Resource: Concrete Centre
H
Heavyweight Concrete
Concrete with high-density aggregates, used for radiation shielding in nuclear power plants.
Learn about concrete applications |
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