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About

Accurate material estimation prevents structural weakness and cost overruns in concrete slab construction. This tool computes the required mass and volume of cement, fine aggregate (sand), coarse aggregate (stone), and water based on total slab volume and standard mix design ratios. It accounts for the dry volume coefficient, typically 1.54, to compensate for material shrinkage and void filling when water is added.

Construction standards define specific grades (e.g., M20, M25) for different load-bearing requirements. M20 (1:1.5:3) is standard for reinforced concrete, while leaner mixes like M10 are used for leveling courses. Incorrect water-cement ratios can reduce compressive strength by over 40%. This calculator uses standard densities (e.g., Cement 1440 kg/m3) to convert volumetric ratios into purchasable weight quantities.

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Formulas

The calculation starts by determining the wet volume of the slab and converting it to the dry volume required for mixing materials.

Total Dry Volume:

Vdry = Vwet × 1.54

Material Volume Fraction:

RatiopartSumratios
× Vdry

Weight Calculation:

Weight = Volume × ρ

Where ρ represents the density of the specific material (e.g., Sand 1600 kg/m3).

Reference Data

GradeMix Ratio (C:S:A)Compressive Strength (28 Days)Typical Application
M51 : 5 : 105 MPaPCC, Foundation Leveling
M7.51 : 4 : 87.5 MPaFootings, Pathways
M101 : 3 : 610 MPaPatio Slabs, Non-structural
M151 : 2 : 415 MPaPavement, Floors
M201 : 1.5 : 320 MPaRCC Beams, Slabs, Columns
M251 : 1 : 225 MPaHeavy Load Foundations
M30Design Mix30 MPaHigh-Rise Structures

Frequently Asked Questions

Dry materials contain voids (air pockets) between particles. When water is added and the mixture acts as a binder, these voids collapse, reducing total volume. To obtain 1 cubic meter of wet concrete, you need approximately 1.54 cubic meters of dry ingredients.
No. The calculation assumes dry aggregates. Wet sand occupies more volume due to "bulking" (surface tension pushing particles apart). If using wet sand, increase the sand volume by 15-25% and reduce the added water accordingly.
Excess water increases workability but drastically reduces strength and durability. It causes segregation (aggregates sinking) and leaves capillary pores upon evaporation, making the concrete permeable and prone to cracking.