MSA Civil Engineering Students Gain Practical Experience in Concrete Mix Design and Material Testing

As part of the Properties of Materials 2 course, students of the Civil Engineering Department at October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA) conducted a series of laboratory experiments on concrete materials to support mix design development. The tests included the determination of specific gravity, absorption, and sieve analysis for cement and aggregates.

Based on the obtained results, the students designed a concrete mix and proceeded to cast six concrete cubes. Compressive strength tests were carried out on three cubes after 7 days and on the remaining three after 28 days, in accordance with standard codes and specifications. In addition, the workability of fresh concrete was assessed using the slump test.

The primary objective of this practical project was to bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world application, providing students with hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of concrete mix design, testing procedures, and material behavior.