How to Achieve a Higher Modulus of Elasticity

This paper describes how the modulus of elasticity of concrete is an important mechanical property since it affects the camber of prestressed concrete beams at the release of prestressing strands and deflections under superimposed dead and live loads. The modulus is closely related to the properties of the cement paste, stiffness of the selected aggregates, and the method of determining the modulus. The standard test method is ASTM C 469—Static Modulus of Elasticity and Poisson’s Ratio of Concrete in Compression. One approach to increase the modulus of elasticity of concrete for a given mix design is to increase the coarse aggregate content of the mix. In doing so, the concrete producer might be required to adjust other mix constituents to satisfy placement and workability requirements.