What is the term for the process where free water in the mix is pushed upward to the surface of concrete?

The term for the process where free water in the mix is pushed upward to the surface of concrete is known as bleeding. This occurs when the heavier solid particles in the concrete mix settle down under the influence of gravity, causing the lighter water to rise to the top. As the concrete begins to set, the water that bleeds to the surface can lead to a layer that may weaken the finished surface if not managed properly.

This phenomenon is significant in concrete work, as it can affect the durability and surface finish of the concrete. It is important for contractors and engineers to understand the effects of bleeding, as it may require adjustments in mix design, placement, or finishing techniques to ensure the final concrete surface meets the desired performance and aesthetic requirements.

In contrast to bleeding, the other processes mentioned involve different stages or techniques used in finishing concrete. Screeding is the act of leveling the surface of fresh concrete to a precise height using a straightedge. Floating is a process that follows screeding, where a tool is used to smooth the surface and embed aggregate just below the surface. Troweling is the final finishing step that provides a smooth, hard surface, but it addresses the surface texture rather than the movement of water within the mix. Each of these techniques