Initial Setting Time Test on Cement

The initial setting time test is conducted on cement to determine the time at which the cement paste loses its plasticity and becomes hard. This is an important test as it helps in determining the time within which the cement should be used after mixing with water.

Amount of Water Used in Conducting the Test

The amount of water used in conducting the initial setting time test on cement is expressed as a percentage of the standard consistency of cement. The standard consistency of cement is the consistency at which the Vicat plunger penetrates to a depth of 5-7 mm from the bottom of the Vicat mould.

Answer

The correct answer to the question is option 'B', which states that the amount of water used in conducting the initial setting time test on cement is 0.85p, where p is the standard consistency of cement.

Explanation

The initial setting time test is conducted using a Vicat apparatus. A cement paste is prepared by adding a certain amount of water to the cement. The paste is then placed in the Vicat mould and the plunger is brought down gently so that it just touches the surface of the paste. The plunger is then released and the time is noted when the paste loses its plasticity and the plunger penetrates to a depth of 5-7 mm.

The amount of water used in conducting the test is 0.85 times the standard consistency of cement. This means that if the standard consistency of cement is p, then the amount of water used in the test would be 0.85p. This is because the cement paste used in the test should have a consistency that is 85% of the standard consistency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the amount of water used in conducting the initial setting time test on cement is 0.85 times the standard consistency of cement. This is an important test as it helps in determining the time within which the cement should be used after mixing with water.