Exp 1 B
Exp 1 B
Objective
Aim: Examine the suitability of cement through various field tests.
Theory:
Cement is a crucial material in construction, acting as a binder in concrete and mortar. Its
quality directly affects the strength, durability, and longevity of structures. Therefore,
performing field tests is essential to ensure the cement's suitability before using it in
construction.
Types of Cement:
1. Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC):
OPC is the most common type of cement used globally. It is available in three grades, each
classified based on its compressive strength, measured in megapascals (MPa):
1. Fineness Test
2. Water Bucket Test
3. Touch and Feel Test
4. Color Test
5. Presence of Lumps Test
Objective:
To assess the fineness of cement.
Materials Required:
100g of cement
90µm sieve
Procedure:
1. Weigh 100g of cement.
2. Place it on a standard 90µm sieve.
3. Sieve the cement for 15 minutes.
4. Weigh the residue left on the sieve.
5. Calculate the percentage of residue.
Observations:
For good quality cement, the residue should not be more than 10%.
Objective:
To evaluate the purity and quality of cement.
Materials Required:
A bucket of water
A handful of cement
Procedure:
1. Take a handful of cement and throw it into the bucket of water.
2. Observe whether the cement floats or sinks.
Observations:
Good quality cement should sink immediately and not float on the water.
Objective:
To assess the fineness and smoothness of cement by touch.
Materials Required:
A small quantity of cement
Procedure:
1. Rub a small quantity of cement between your fingers.
2. Feel for the fineness and smoothness.
Observations:
Good quality cement should feel smooth and not gritty.
4. Color Test
Objective:
To determine the quality of cement based on its color.
Materials Required:
A sample of cement
Procedure:
Observe the color of the cement sample.
Observations:
Good quality cement should be uniform grey in color.
Objective:
To check the presence of lumps in cement which may indicate moisture absorption.
Materials Required:
A sample of cement
Procedure:
Inspect the cement for any lumps.
Observations:
Good quality cement should be free from lumps.
RESULTS:
Based on the field tests conducted, assess whether the cement is of suitable quality for
construction purposes.
Complete Observation and Result
Record the observations and results for each test in a tabular format.
PRECAUTIONS:
1. Ensure that the cement is stored properly to avoid moisture absorption.
2. Conduct the tests in a clean environment to avoid contamination.