State the properties of cement in concrete mixture

1. The chemical composition in cement

Portland cement is made up of four main compounds: tricalcium silicate (3CaO · SiO₂), dicalcium silicate (2CaO · SiO₂), tricalcium aluminate (3CaO · Al₂O₃), and a tetra-calcium aluminoferrite (4CaO · Al₂O₃Fe₂O₃).

2. Process of Hydration in Concrete

3. The Storage Method of Cement

What is the storage of cement?

The cement should be stored in such a way that it cannot expose to the atmosphere. So, air tight bags are used to pack the cement. The absorption of moisture from atmosphere will also depends up on the quality of cement. If the cement is finely grained and very good in quality, then it will absorb moisture vigorously.

There are 2 ways to store the cement including; 

A) Silo

A cement silo is the on-site storage container that allows for the storage and distribution of different cement mixes. Cement silos can come in a range of sizes to fit the needs of construction sites.

B) Cement Bag at Store

Proper precautions for the storage of cement such as duration and place of storage, arrangement, atmospheric moisture content etc. is necessary after the process of manufacturing and before using it in the construction site. Because the cement hygroscopic nature, the cement absorbs moisture from the atmosphere very actively and hardens like stone which cannot be used for constructional purpose. So, storage of cement should be done with care.

Cement should not be stored normally. There are some precautions to be considered in the storage of cement. Following are the different situations against which precautions are to be taken:

• Atmospheric moisture content
• Duration of cement storage
• Place of storage
• Arranging cement bags
• Withdrawal of cement bags

Moisture content or dampness is the main hazard for the cement. The moisture present in the atmosphere is enough for the cement to become useless material. The cement should be stored in such a way that it cannot expose to the atmosphere. So, air tight bags are used to pack the cement. The bags of cement should not be stored in open places. Preferably specially designed storage sheds are good for cement storage. They can be used for longer periods. The main purpose of special design is to provide waterproof floors, roofs and walls. The floor of shed should be well above the ground level. Small windows with air tight doors should be provided. Proper drainage should be provided inside and outside the shed to drain water in any case.