This standard outlines the test procedure for determining the heat of hydration of hydraulic cement using the heat of solution method. It is essential for evaluating cements intended for mass concrete applications where excessive heat generation can cause thermal gradients and subsequent cracking.
Describes the procedure for determining the heat of hydration of hydraulic cement by the calorimetric method.
Quick Reference Values
Test room temperature27 ± 2 °C
Weight of dry cement sample3.000 g
Weight of partially hydrated cement sample4.180 g
Volume of solvent (nitric and hydrofluoric acid mixture)425 ml
Required precision of thermometer0.001 °C
Duration of hydration for testTypically 7 days and 28 days
Key Formulas
H = H1 - H2 (where H is heat of hydration, H1 is heat of solution of dry cement, and H2 is heat of solution of partially hydrated cement)
Practical Notes
Strict safety protocols, including appropriate PPE and fume hoods, must be utilized because the test involves handling highly corrosive hydrofluoric acid.
The calorimeter must be properly insulated and meticulously calibrated to determine its heat capacity, as heat leakage can severely affect the results.
Ensure accurate weighing of the hydrated sample, adjusting for the non-evaporable water content to match the exact dry weight equivalent.