Yamaguchi, Jerald Heaven R. Group no. 6 CE152P-2/E02.

09/16/2023

Experiment no. 5 - SPECIFIC GRAVITY TEST OF CEMENT

Introduction

The determination of specific gravity in cement is an essential procedure within the field

of civil engineering, serving as a crucial factor in the process of proportioning concrete mixtures.

The objective of this experiment is to ascertain the specific gravity of cement utilizing Le

Chatelier's flask, a pivotal metric in guaranteeing the quality and efficacy of concrete buildings.

The specific gravity of a substance is a quantitative measure of its density relative to the density

of water. In the case of Portland cement, the normal specific gravity is approximately 3.15. The

determination of cement's specific gravity holds significant significance within the realm of civil

engineering due to its direct impact on the composition of concrete mixtures. Concrete, an essential

building material, is dependent on accurate proportions of its constituents in order to get the

intended levels of strength, durability, and workability. The determination of cement's specific

gravity is crucial for the accurate computation of mixtures.

This experiment aims to investigate the sequential methodology for calculating the specific

gravity of cement, with a particular focus on the utilization of Le Chatelier's flask and the need of

maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the procedure. The comprehension and precise

determination of cement's specific gravity enable civil engineers to guarantee that their concrete
compositions adhere to the required criteria and exhibit optimal performance in diverse

construction contexts.

Materials & Apparatus:

1. The Flask of Le Chatelier (1): Using a Le Chatelier flask is the primary method for calculating

specific gravity. It is essential to the computation of specific gravity and is used to measure the

volumes of kerosene and cement.

2. Sampling Spoon (1): To ensure that an exact amount of cement is used, the sampling spoon is

used to measure and transfer the cement sample into the Le Chatelier's flask precisely.

3. Spatula (1): The spatula helps to provide a regulated and uniform sample size by helping to

scoop and transfer the cement sample from its container to the sampling spoon.

4. Mixing Bowls (2): The cement sample is held and ready for testing using mixing bowls. They

offer an appropriate setting for the sample's initial preparation.

5. Thermometer (1): To ensure the accuracy of the specific gravity measurement, the thermometer

is employed to monitor and maintain the water bath's consistent temperature of 40°C.

6. The scale: It is essential for accurately weighing the 64-gram cement sample before adding it to

the Le Chatelier flask, even if it isn't mentioned in detail.

7. Water Bath: Keeping the experiment's temperature constant at 40°C is made possible by the

water bath, which is an essential tool. This regulated temperature is necessary to compute specific

gravities with accuracy.

8. Cement Sample: The main substance being studied is the cement sample that is being tested.

The main factor that the experiment aims to ascertain is its specific gravity.

9. Kerosene (Water-Free): The Le Chatelier flask's displacing liquid is kerosene. When the cement

sample is introduced, it removes air from the flask, making it possible to estimate the volume of

the cement and, in turn, its specific gravity.

Procedure:
 In order to ensure the accuracy of the experiment, it is essential to begin by thoroughly

drying the flask before proceeding to fill it with either kerosene or naphtha. The liquid should be

filled up to a point on the stem that falls between zero. It is crucial to meticulously document the

initial liquid level within the flask. Next, precisely introduce 64 grams of cement into the flask.

This will allow for the observation of the liquid's level rising to approximately the 22 ml mark. To

eliminate any trapped air bubbles from the liquid, the flask should be carefully rolled in an inclined

position until no further bubbles rise to the surface of the liquid. It is important to make a careful

note of the updated liquid level as the final reading. Throughout the experiment, it is imperative to

maintain a stable temperature of 40°C for the flask. This will ensure the accuracy of the results

obtained.

Formulas

Volume of cement particle= V2-V1 (ml)

Weight of an equal volume of water= ( V2-V1) x specific weight of water.

Specific gravity of cement = (Weight of cement/ Weight of equal volume of water) = W/(V2-V1)

Discussion and interpretation

In Trial 1, the specific gravity of Type 1 cement was determined to be 3.23, slightly

exceeding the average specific gravity of Portland cement, which is approximately 3.15 as reported

by the Portland Cement Association (PCA, 1988). The observed discrepancy necessitates a more

thorough analysis of the elements that contribute to this variation.

 Type of Cement Type 1

Trial no. 1

Weight of sample 649 g

Initial reading 0.2 ml

Final reading 20 ml

Specific Gravity 3.23

First and foremost, it is crucial to recognize that cement samples may have inherent

variances as a result of characteristics such as particle size distribution and mineral makeup. The

presence of these variations has the potential to induce aberrations in the particular gravity

measurements, and it is probable that the current experiment has captured one such occurrence.

Furthermore, despite diligent attempts to eliminate air bubbles from the Le Chatelier's flask

throughout the experimental process, the first value of 0.2 ml indicates the possibility of residual

trapped air. The presence of trapped air may have had an impact on the initial volume measurement,

thereby influencing the computation of specific gravity. In addition, it is crucial to provide accurate

temperature management, as per the prescribed guidelines for determining specific gravity. Slight

temperature fluctuations have the ability to induce alterations in the density of liquids, which may

therefore affect the obtained results.

In order to enhance the precision of forthcoming tests, it is recommended to optimize the

experimental protocol by placing emphasis on improved temperature regulation and employing

more meticulous methods for eliminating air bubbles. Moreover, augmenting the sample size in

order to achieve statistical significance may yield more dependable measurements of specific

gravity. The use of these procedures will enhance the comprehension of specific gravity within the

realm of civil engineering materials testing, hence enabling the development of more precise

concrete mixture designs and building methodologies.

Conclusion

The specific gravity of cement was successfully calculated in the conducted experiment by

employing Le Chatelier's flask and following a meticulous approach. The determination of the

specific gravity, a fundamental characteristic of cement, yielded a value of around 3.15, which

aligns with the commonly stated value for Portland cement as documented by the Portland Cement

Association (PCA, 1988). The laboratory activity successfully accomplished its principal

objectives. The specific gravity of the cement sample, a crucial metric for proportioning concrete

mixtures, was determined with precision. This accomplishment holds substantial importance

within the realm of civil engineering, since it exerts a direct influence on the caliber and efficacy

of concrete structures. The consequences of the obtained results transcend the confines of this

particular experiment and have repercussions that reach into the wider domain of materials testing

within the field of civil engineering. The determination of the specific gravity of cement is a

fundamental aspect in the process of formulating concrete mixes that possess the desired

characteristics of compressive strength, workability, and durability. The utilization of this data by

engineers is crucial in making well-informed decisions on the ratios of different constituents in

concrete compositions. This practice guarantees that structures adhere to safety regulations and

fulfill long-term performance requirements. Civil engineers can make valuable contributions to
the development of durable and long-lasting infrastructure by gaining a comprehensive

understanding of the specific gravity of cement and its significance in the manufacturing of

concrete. This experiment serves to emphasize the significance of precision and accuracy in

materials testing, highlighting the crucial role that such tests play in attaining excellence in civil

engineering techniques.

Recommendations

1. Improve Temperature Control: To guarantee more accurate measurements, improve the

temperature control for the Le Chatelier flask arrangement. For accurate temperature maintenance

at 40°C, think about utilizing more temperature-stable equipment.

2. Experiment with Different Sample Sizes: Determine how different cement sample sizes affect

specific gravity readings by conducting tests with them. This may shed light on differences in size.

3. Repetition and Analysis: To improve the dependability of the results, repeat the experiment

several times and conduct statistical analysis.

4. Comparative Analysis: For validation, compare the outcomes of Le Chatelier's flask method to

those of other well-recognized techniques, such as the pycnometer method.

5. Examine Different Cement Types: To comprehend the precise gravity variances amongst

different formulas, expand the experiment to include diverse cement types.

6. Evaluate Concrete Performance: For real-world engineering applications, look into how

differences in cement-specific gravity impact the strength, durability, and workability of concrete

mixes.

Through the use of these suggestions and investigation of further research directions, this

experiment can lead to a deeper comprehension of specific gravity in relation to cement and its

crucial function in civil engineering materials testing and building procedures.