Mix proportion of cast-stone vs. precast concrete?
Mix proportion of cast-stone vs. precast concrete?
(OP)
Hello, folks,
I am doing a new research project regarding to the " Cast-Stone". I have read all the specifications of cast stone from cast stone institute, but still did not get clear idea about how to do mix design of cast stone. I understand that the requirement of physical properties is a little bit different between the cast stone and arthitectural precast concrete regarding to the strength and freeze-thaw resistance. But is the mix design method is similar?
Moreover, About aggregates, it is said in the specification that " exception for gradation" while ASTM C33 should be followed? so, how is the gradation of aggregates and how to optimize the gradation?
Any input would be greatly appreciated.
I am doing a new research project regarding to the " Cast-Stone". I have read all the specifications of cast stone from cast stone institute, but still did not get clear idea about how to do mix design of cast stone. I understand that the requirement of physical properties is a little bit different between the cast stone and arthitectural precast concrete regarding to the strength and freeze-thaw resistance. But is the mix design method is similar?
Moreover, About aggregates, it is said in the specification that " exception for gradation" while ASTM C33 should be followed? so, how is the gradation of aggregates and how to optimize the gradation?
Any input would be greatly appreciated.






RE: Mix proportion of cast-stone vs. precast concrete?
RE: Mix proportion of cast-stone vs. precast concrete?
Since you are doing research, I suggest you begin with the PCI publication entitled "Architectural Precast Concrete" (I have the second edition, in which cast stone is addressed in section 3.5.15).
You should also log onto the Cast Stone Institute's website www.caststone.org to download their standard specification, which will answer a lot of your questions.
Now to your original question . . .
Cast stone is manufactured using a wet mix or a dry-tamping process. Very few fabricators (in the USA) use the dry-tamping process anymore because of the additional manual labor involved.
Differing requirements for absorption and compressive strength may be specified on a per project basis, but they need not be different for architectural precast concrete. The wet-mix process for cast stone is virtually identical to the casting of architectural cast stone, and therefore the concrete mix design can very well be the same.
RE: Mix proportion of cast-stone vs. precast concrete?
Just my way of looking at it. For mix information I would call PCA and PCI.