Comparative Analysis of Concrete Products from Nominal Mixes and Mix Design

Concrete is a fundamental construction material widely used for various structural applications due to its strength and durability. The proportioning of concrete components significantly influences its mechanical properties and long-term performance. This study presents a comparative analysis of concrete strength derived from nominal mixes and mix design methodologies. Nominal mixes rely on predetermined ratios without considering material properties, while mix design employs a systematic approach to optimize concrete composition based on desired strength, durability, and workability. The research involved experimental investigations, including compressive strength, tensile strength and workability tests on concrete specimens prepared using both nominal and mix design methods. Concrete cubes and cylindrical specimens were tested at 3, 7, 14, and 28 days to evaluate the rate of strength development and durability. The results demonstrated that mix design consistently produced higher and more predictable concrete strengths, achieving a 28-day compressive strength of 22.4 N/mm², surpassing the nominal mix strength of 21.5 N/mm² for 1:1.5:3 and 18.4 N/mm² for 1:2:4. Similarly, mix design concrete exhibited lower water absorption and improved durability compared to nominal mixes. This study highlights the importance of adopting mix design methodologies in modern construction to optimize material use, enhance structural integrity, and improve sustainability. The findings provide valuable insights for builders, engineers, contractors, and construction professionals in selecting appropriate concrete mix proportioning techniques for different project requirements.