Structural concrete failures in developing countries: overview about the effects of mixing water on concrete properties

Abstract

Over the years, there were cases of building failures in most developing countries of the world that have led to loss of lives and properties. Yet, most investigations conducted on the causes of building failures have suggested poor design, inadequate supervision and inferior materials - except detail analysis of concrete mixing water - as contributing factors to the failures. Therefore, this review summarizes the effect of the type and composition of mixing water in concrete on its properties. Different sources of water that can be used to mix concrete were explored, alongside with the effect on fresh and hardened properties of concrete. The fresh properties of concrete such as setting time and slump were examined, while the hardened properties of concrete focused on its strength and durability. A brief statement on the available regulation and standards for mixing water in concrete were also reported. This review shows the viability of using water from different sources to successfully mix concrete. However, treatment of some types of water might be required to ensure that excellent strength and durability properties are achieved, while preventing any threat to human life and the environment. Area for future research was also suggested, which, among other procedures, could help offer solutions to the challenge of building failures in developing countries.