Effects of Water Quality on Strength Properties of Concrete

This research investigated the effect of different sources of water on the compressive strength of concrete. The waters samples used for the analysis were rain, river and potable water.The chemical compositions of these water qualities and sources were determined, while 18 concrete cubes were produced in the ratio of 1:2:4 using each water quality type. The cubes were cured and crushed at 7, 14 and 28 days using the Farnell Crushing Machine. The compressive strength test was carried out on the cubes and the findings were statistically processed.It was observed that the concrete produced with potable water and river water had their compressive strengths gradually increased with age while the concrete produced with rain water gradually increased too but later decreased in strength at 28 days age. The results indicated that sources of water used in mixing concrete have a significant impact on the compressive strength of the resulting concrete. It concluded by suggesting that potable water is the best water type for concrete production since the concrete cubes obtained from it gained appreciable strength with age. River water could be used for mixing where potable water is scarce. However, other properties such as durability and shrinkage should be considered before use. It was recommended that potable water and water without obvious concrete-inimical substances be used in concrete production.