Cement Content Analysis

Cement content analysis is important to allow engineers to gauge the structural stability of any building or concrete structure where cement is used. Too high a cement content can cause concrete to suffer from excessive shrinkage and thermal cracking, which can lead to concrete spalling and in turn be dangerous for a structure. Too low cement content can signal lack of required strength to support proposed loadings, leading to potential catastrophic failure.

What determines the strength of cement?

Structural engineers meticulously design concrete mixes that incorporate a specified cement content, which ultimately enables the concrete to achieve the strength that is deemed necessary for the integrity and durability of the structure. While the quality of the other aggregates significantly influences the overall composition and, consequently, the strength of the concrete, their ability to contribute to the formation of a dense and compact concrete matrix will determine the required strength specifications.

Additional factors that play a crucial role in dictating the strength of the concrete include the precise water content, the method of placing the concrete, the level of compaction achieved, the presence of any honeycombs, and the overall air content within the mix. To ensure quality and consistency, designers establish strict standards for all of these essential parameters when they undertake the design of a concrete structure.

How Do You Test Cement Content?

During the pouring process cube sampling and slump testing should be carried out to determine the concrete is performing as required. However, this information can be lost. Over time, when major works are carried out to a structure, engineers may need this information for calculations. Cement content analysis can provide proportions which can then be used to calculate cement ratios. Combined with compressive strength tests this suite of testing should provide the client with the information they require to determine load capacities of a structural concrete element.

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Our cement content analysis is typically combined with our other concrete testing services. Please click here to read about the other concrete testing services we can offer you. Contact our surveyors to discuss your requirements or to book a site visit