Increase in fineness of cementa)Reduces the rate of strength developme...
The fineness of cement is a measure of the size of particles of cement and is expressed in terms of specific surface of cement.
For a given weight of cement, the surface area is more for finer cement than for coarser cement. The finer the cement, the higher is the rate of hydration, as more surface area is available for chemical reaction. This results in the early development of strength.
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Increase in fineness of cementa)Reduces the rate of strength developme...
Introduction:
The fineness of cement refers to the particle size of the cement particles. It is measured by the specific surface area of cement expressed as square centimeters per gram (cm²/g). The fineness of cement plays a significant role in its performance and properties.
Explanation:
The increase in fineness of cement has several effects on its properties and performance. The correct answer is option 'D', which states that an increase in the fineness of cement leads to higher shrinkage and an increased rate of strength development. Let's understand this in detail:
1. Increased rate of strength development:
When the cement particles are finer, they have a larger surface area available for chemical reactions to occur. This results in a faster rate of hydration, where water reacts with cement to form chemical compounds that contribute to the strength of concrete. Therefore, an increase in the fineness of cement leads to an increased rate of strength development.
2. Higher shrinkage:
Shrinkage is the reduction in volume of concrete or mortar due to the loss of moisture during the drying process. Finer cement particles tend to require more water for hydration, resulting in a higher water-cement ratio. A higher water-cement ratio generally leads to higher shrinkage because there is more water available for evaporation. Therefore, an increase in the fineness of cement leads to higher shrinkage.
3. Other effects:
While the correct answer focuses on the rate of strength development and shrinkage, it is important to note that the increase in fineness of cement can also have other effects, such as:
- Increased bleeding: Bleeding is the phenomenon where water rises to the surface of freshly placed concrete, leaving behind pores and voids. Finer cement particles tend to increase the bleeding of cement, leading to a higher water content at the surface of concrete and potential surface defects.
- Decreased workability: Finer cement particles require more water for proper mixing and workability. Therefore, an increase in the fineness of cement may decrease the workability of concrete, making it more difficult to handle and place.
- Increased heat of hydration: Finer cement particles have a larger surface area, which results in a higher rate of heat generation during hydration. This increased heat of hydration can lead to thermal cracking in concrete if not properly controlled.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the increase in fineness of cement has several effects on its properties and performance. It leads to an increased rate of strength development and higher shrinkage. Additionally, it can increase bleeding, decrease workability, and result in a higher heat of hydration. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the fineness of cement in construction projects to ensure desired outcomes and avoid potential issues.
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