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What does free moisture of the aggregate refer to?
Moisture absorbed by the aggregate
Moisture completely evaporated from the aggregate
Moisture on the surface of the aggregate exceeding absorbed moisture
Moisture that affects the weight of cement
The correct answer is: Moisture on the surface of the aggregate exceeding absorbed moisture
Free moisture of the aggregate specifically refers to the moisture that exists on the surface of the aggregate. This type of moisture is not absorbed into the material but is instead present externally, potentially forming a layer that can affect the mixing and performance of concrete. When aggregates have free moisture, it means that the amount of water present on their surface exceeds the moisture that is absorbed within the aggregate's pores. Understanding this concept is crucial in concrete mix design and batching because free moisture can influence the water-cement ratio and ultimately the durability and strength of the finished concrete. Correctly accounting for free moisture ensures that the proportions of water and cement used in the mix are accurate, thereby optimizing the concrete's performance characteristics.