Question

What effect does bulking have on fresh concrete?

(a) Strength reduces

(b) Shrinkage increases

(c) Volume reduces

(d) Workability increases

This question was addressed to me in unit test.

My doubt stems from Bulking of Sand topic in chapter Materials for Construction of Basic Civil Engineering

Answer 1

Right choice is (d) Workability increases

To elaborate: The excess water in the sand can be used to maintain water-cement ratio.  It improves workability and hence it is easier to place fresh concrete.  Strength is a property of hardened concrete.