Abstract
In the mix proportioning process, the concept of minimum voids and the principle of minimum surface area are basically in conflict with each other. The former implies that a blend of several fractions of coarse aggregate is always superior to a single fraction. The latter states that for a given maximum size of aggregate a single fraction is superior to any blend. Between the two extremes—continuous gradation, on the one hand, and a single fraction of coarse aggregate, on the other—lies the vast and largely unexplored gray area of gap-graded mixes. In spite of the great variety of gradation patterns available in this area, certain general principles can be delineated and translated into a system of mix proportioning that is applicable to the total spectrum of concrete mixes.

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