Different types of concrete grades and their uses

This civil engineering article throws light on various grades of concrete and their mix ratios as well as their applications.

Overview of Grades of Concrete: Grades of concrete are denoted by the strength and composition of the concrete, and least strength the concrete is based on 28 days of initial construction. The grade of concrete is measured by MPa, where M belongs to mix and the MPa belongs to overall strength.

Concrete mixes are described in ascending numbers of 5, starting at 10, and demonstrates the compressive strength of the concrete after 28 days. As for example, C10 contains the strength of 10 newtons, C15 contains the strength of 15 newtons, C20 contains 20 newtons strength and so on.

Different mixes (M) are available in different mix proportions of several constituents of cement, sand and coarse aggregates. As for example, M20 is available in the specific ratio of 1:1:5:3.

How to select proper concrete grade for the construction job: Given below, the detail lists of some initial concrete grades and their applications :-

C10
Suitable for: Patio slabs, pathways and non-structural work
Type: Domestic & commercial use

C15
Suitable for: Pavement kerbs and floor blinding
Type: Domestic & Commercial

Also Read: Details of ordinary grades, standard grades of concrete and high strength concrete grades

C20
Suitable for: Domestic floors and foundations (where the weight of structure will be lighter). Also ideal for workshop bases, garages, driveways and internal floor slabs.
Type: Domestic

C25
Suitable for: Construction in all areas. Multi-purpose concrete mix, normally useful for foundations.
Type: Domestic & Commercial

C30
Suitable for: Pathways and roadways (it is the lowest grade concrete mix that can be applied for this purpose). It is long-lasting as compared to the grades that have come before, and contains good weather-resistant capacity and sustain heavy road traffic.
Type: Commercial

C35
Suitable for: Commercial structures. This heavy concrete mix is normally applied for creating external walls and slabs, as well as for structural piling.
Type: Commercial

C40
Suitable for: Commercial construction sites, foundations development and beams for structural support and roads. It is long-lasting and can provide safeguard against chemical corrosion also. It is extensively applied on farms where slurry could decay structures, or in septic tanks.