Experimental Investigation of Chemical and Physical Properties of Cements Manufactured in Pakistan

摘要

Concrete is a strong material in compression and is employed to resist compressive stresses in reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Concrete is a mixture of cement and coarse and fine aggregates; its quality is influenced mainly by the quality of the cement. This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation to study the properties of cements available in Pakistan. Seven different brands (A-G) of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) were employed in the studies presented. Chemical and physical tests were conducted on samples of cement, cement-sand mortar, and concrete. Compound composition was estimated through the chemical analysis of cement. Fineness of grinding, loss on ignition, and insoluble residue contents of cement were determined. Concrete cylinders of three target strengths were cast and tested both in compression and tension. Cement-sand mortar cubes were also tested in compression. All of these tests were conducted in accordance with relevant ASTM standards. The properties of cements were compared on the basis of results obtained from the aforementioned tests and the recommended values given by the standards. It was noted that only the cement brand B achieved the desired compressive strength at the specified age of 28 days. The results of mechanical tests of concrete and mortar were supported by the compound composition and fineness of the cement.