1. Basic criteria for concrete formulation

Concrete formulation involves numerous criteria, both technical and economic. These criteria can be grouped into five classes:

• the environment of the structure during operation;

• geometric characteristics of the structure ;

• specific characteristics of fresh, hardening and cured material;

• conditions for the manufacture and use of fresh concrete;

• locally available materials.

Based on these five classes of criteria, it is necessary to establish material specifications, some of which are not always perfectly compatible. Not all cases will be presented here, as they are too numerous, but the essential elements for establishing formulations will be provided.