What is the primary purpose of a concrete formwork?

The primary purpose of concrete formwork is to provide a temporary mold for shaping the concrete. Formwork serves as the physical structure that holds the wet concrete in the desired shape and position until it has cured and gained sufficient strength to support itself. It allows for the precise creation of the dimensions and geometry required for the concrete elements being poured, such as slabs, walls, or other architectural features.

While aesthetic appeal may be a secondary consideration in some projects, it is not the primary function of formwork. The curing process is critical for strength development, but formwork itself does not enhance this process; it mainly serves to contain the concrete. Additionally, formwork does not inherently increase the strength of the concrete; rather, it allows the concrete to set in the correct shape, which can contribute to the overall strength depending on how the concrete mix is designed and how it is placed within the formed structure.