What method is commonly used to evaluate the workability of freshly mixed concrete?

The slump test is a widely accepted method for evaluating the workability of freshly mixed concrete. It measures the consistency and flowability of the concrete mix, providing insight into how easily the concrete can be placed and compacted without segregation.

During the slump test, a conical mold is filled with the concrete mixture and then lifted off. The distance the concrete settles or "slumps" is measured. A higher slump indicates greater workability, meaning the concrete is easier to handle and place. Conversely, a lower slump suggests stiffer concrete, which may be more challenging to work with.

Other testing methods listed do not primarily assess workability. For example, the flow table test is also used to measure the workability of concrete, but it is less common than the slump test. The compression test evaluates the strength of hardened concrete rather than its workability, and the temperature test measures the concrete’s temperature, which is not directly related to workability. Thus, the slump test is the standard method specifically designed to assess the workability of freshly mixed concrete.