Physical tests (IS 4031)
- Fineness. Finer cement hydrates faster and gains strength sooner.
- Standard consistency. The water content that gives a paste of standard stiffness. Setting time and soundness tests are made at this consistency.
- Initial and final setting time. Cement must not set too fast to place, nor too slowly to gain strength.
- Soundness (Le Chatelier and autoclave). Checks for expansion after setting.
- Compressive strength. Standard mortar cubes are cast and crushed at set ages. This is the property that defines the grade.
Chemical analysis (IS 4032)
Chemical analysis checks the oxide composition, loss on ignition, insoluble residue, and the sulphate and chloride content against the limits of the cement standard. Chlorides matter especially in reinforced concrete because they drive corrosion of reinforcement.
Testing the whole mix
Cement is one ingredient. For the full picture we also test mixing water to IS 456, aggregates and the hardened concrete through cube and core tests. Everything is listed under building material testing.
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