How is "over-sanded" sand characterized?

"Over-sanded" sand is characterized as fine and requiring more water. This term typically refers to sand that has been excessively processed or sifted to remove larger particles, resulting in a much finer texture. When sand is over-sanded, it tends to have a high surface area relative to its volume, which means it can easily absorb more water. This characteristic is crucial in construction and concrete mixing since the correct water-to-sand ratio is necessary to achieve optimal strength and workability in concrete applications.

In construction practices, it's vital to ensure that the sand used can adequately bond with other materials, such as cement. Over-sanded fine aggregates can lead to a mix that is too dry and crumbles or one that is overly wet and hard to work with. Thus, understanding the state of the sand and its moisture requirements directly impacts the quality of the end product in any construction project.