The ultimate strength of cement is provided by:i) Tricalcium aluminat...
Tri-calcium aluminate and tri-calcium silicate are responsible for the initial strength of cement, and di-calcium silicate is accountable for the ultimate power of cement.
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The ultimate strength of cement is provided by:i) Tricalcium aluminat...
The ultimate strength of cement is provided by:
i) Tricalcium aluminate
ii) Tricalcium silicate
iii) Dicalcium silicate
The correct answer is option 'A' - Only iii)
Explaination:
Cement is a vital component in the construction industry and is used as a binding material for various construction purposes. It is produced by grinding clinker, which is a combination of raw materials like limestone, clay, and other minerals, into a fine powder. The powder is then mixed with water to form a paste that hardens and gains strength over time.
There are several compounds present in cement that contribute to its strength. However, the ultimate strength of cement is mainly provided by dicalcium silicate (C2S). This compound is also known as belite and is one of the major constituents of cement.
Here's a breakdown of the role of each compound in cement:
i) Tricalcium aluminate (C3A):
Tricalcium aluminate is responsible for the early setting of cement. It reacts quickly with water to form calcium aluminate hydrates, which contribute to the initial strength development. However, C3A does not significantly contribute to the ultimate strength of cement.
ii) Tricalcium silicate (C3S):
Tricalcium silicate is the most abundant compound in cement and is responsible for the initial strength development. It reacts with water to form calcium silicate hydrates (C-S-H) gel, which provides the primary strength in the early stages of cement hydration. However, C3S does not contribute significantly to the ultimate strength of cement.
iii) Dicalcium silicate (C2S):
Dicalcium silicate is the compound that provides the ultimate strength of cement. It reacts slowly with water compared to C3S but continues to hydrate and gain strength over a longer period. The hydration products of C2S contribute to the long-term strength and durability of the hardened cement.
In conclusion, while tricalcium aluminate (C3A) and tricalcium silicate (C3S) play important roles in the setting and early strength development of cement, the ultimate strength is primarily provided by dicalcium silicate (C2S).