Engineering Materials·MCQ explained

C.R.R.I. charts are used to obtain a relationship between strength of concrete and a

Try it first: pick an option, then read the explanation.

Correct answer: A. water cement ratio

Detailed Explanation: CRRI Charts

CRRI (Central Road Research Institute), located in New Delhi, has been a key institution in developing design guidelines for roads, bridges, and concrete structures suited to Indian materials and climatic conditions.

Why A (water cement ratio) is correct: CRRI charts are graphical design tools (nomograms) that relate compressive strength of concrete to water-cement ratio for specific Indian cement types, aggregate types, and curing ages. They serve a similar purpose to Abrams' Law curves but are calibrated to Indian construction materials. Before IS 10262 (mix design code), CRRI charts were the primary reference for selecting w/c ratio in Indian concrete practice. Other options: workability (B) is measured by slump/VB tests; grading (C) is checked by sieve analysis; fineness modulus (D) is a single-number aggregate property — none are specifically linked to CRRI charts.

Key Features of CRRI Charts

FeatureDescription
Developed byCentral Road Research Institute, New Delhi
X-axisWater-cement ratio
Y-axisCompressive strength (28-day)
PurposeSelect w/c for target strength
Indian Standard referenceUsed before IS 10262 was widely adopted

Key Concepts for Students

  • CRRI charts = strength vs. w/c nomograms developed for Indian materials.
  • They incorporate the effect of cement grade (33/43/53) and curing age on the strength-w/c relationship.
  • IS 10262:2019 is now the primary mix design standard; CRRI charts remain useful as a quick cross-check.