ASTM Classification of CEMENTS

ASTM Classification of CEMENTS

Before we discuss the above cements, for general information, it is necessary to see how

Portland cement are classified under the ASTM (American Society for Testing Materials)

standards. As per ASTM, cement is designated as Type I, Type II, Type III, Type IV, Type V and

other minor types like Type IS, Type IP and Type IA IIA and IIIA.

Type I

For use in general concrete construction where the special properties specified for Types

II, III, IV and V are not required (Ordinary Portland Cement).

Type II

For use in general concrete construction exposed to moderate sulphate action, or where

moderate heat of hydration is required.

Type III

For use when high early strength is

required (Rapid Hardening Cement).

Type IV

For use when low heat of hydration is

required (Low Heat Cement).

Type V

For use when high sulphate resistance is

required (Sulphate Resisting Cement).

ASTM standard also have cement of the

type IS. This consist of an intimate and uniform

blend of Portland Cement of type I and fine

granulated slag. The slag content is between

25 and 70 per cent of the weight of Portland

Blast-Furnace Slag Cement.

Type IP

This consist of an intimate and uniform

blend of Portland Cement (or Portland Blast

Furnace Slag Cement) and fine pozzolana in

which the pozzolana content is between 15

and 40 per cent of the weight of the total cement.

Type IA, IIA and IIIA

These are type I, II or III cement in which air-entraining agent is interground where airentrainment

in concrete is desired.