Workability depends on factors like water content because it boosts lubrication among the concrete ingredients, aiding workability.
Finer particles, for instance, require more water due to their larger surface area. At the same time, angular aggregates with rough textures generally need more water than their rounded counterparts. It follows that the workability of the mixture is affected.
Additionally, the aggregate's porosity influences the amount of water needed, as the aggregates themselves absorb some water added for mixing.
Water in the mix either evaporates or is consumed in chemical reactions, reducing the amount of available water and leading to decreased workability.
A disproportionately high coarse-to-fine aggregate ratio may cause segregation, reducing the mix's workability and resulting in a rough texture.
The workability of concrete is also affected by the distribution of aggregates with varied densities.
For example, when semi-lightweight aggregates are used instead of standard ones, they occupy a greater volume because of their lower specific gravity, which decreases workability.
Air entrainment can reduce the water needed to maintain desired workability in concrete.
