SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF CEMENT TEST

 cement may contain excessive moisture content if it is exposed to the various weather conditions and we all know that w/c ratio is a big factor which determines the concrete strength. Because w/c ratio is directly proportional to the workability. If the cement contains a greater amount of moisture in it then the w/c ratio will definitely affect the workability as well as the strength of concrete.

As per industry, the acceptable value of specific gravity of cement is up to 3.19. But if the value is greater than 3.19 it means cement is containing greater amount of moisture content which will affect the workability and strength of concrete. This is why we need to calculate the correct value of specific gravity of cement before using it in the mix.

HOW TO CALCULATE SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF CEMENT:

Aim: To find the specific gravity of cement.

MATERIALS AND APPARATUS:

1. OPC (Ordinary portland cement)

2. Specific gravity bottle / Le-Chatelier of 250 ml capacity / Pycnometer (100 ml).

3. Kerosene,

4. Weighing machine with 0.1 gm accurate.

PROCEDURE OF TEST:

1. Measure the weight of empty flask (W1). The flask should be totally dry and free of liquid.

2. Fill half of the flask with cement (about 50 gm) and Measure the weight with its stopper (W2).

3. Then fill the flask with kerosene up to the top level of the flask. Mix cement and kerosene properly to remove air bubble from it. Weigh the flask with cement and kerosene (W3)/

4. Now empty the flask and again fill it with kerosene up to the top of the flask. Weigh the flask (W4).