Question 1

Cement hydration chemistry: which set of cement compounds react with water to drive the hydration reactions that produce strength and paste structure in ordinary Portland cement?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Cement hydration involves several clinker phases reacting with water to form binding products (C-S-H gel, calcium hydroxide, ettringite, etc.). Understanding which compounds hydrate clarifies early versus later strength development. Given Data / Assumptions: C_3S (tricalcium silicate), C_2S (dicalcium silicate), C_3A (tricalcium aluminate), C_4AF (tricalcium alumino-ferrite). Ordinary Portland cement with gypsum as set regulator. Concept / Approach: All four primary clinker minerals hydrate. C_3S hydrates rapidly, giving early strength; C_2S hydrates slower, contributing to later strength. C_3A reacts vigorously, especially with gypsum to form ettringite then monosulfate. C_4AF hydrates more slowly, contributing modestly to strength and color. Step-by-Step Solution: List reactive phases: C_3S, C_2S, C_3A, C_4AF.Recognize that each undergoes hydration reactions with water.Therefore, “All the above” is correct. Verification / Alternative check: Heat of hydration curves and XRD/SEM studies confirm all phases participate in hydration chemistry. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Picking only a subset ignores the reactivity of the remaining phases. Common Pitfalls: Assuming only silicates hydrate; aluminates are crucial for setting and early reactions. Final Answer: All the above

Question 2

Concrete workability by compaction factor: given Wp and Wf are the weights of a cylinder filled with partially compacted and fully compacted concrete respectively, if the measured compaction factor is 0.95, how would you classify the concrete's work…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Compaction factor is a laboratory measure of concrete workability, especially useful for low to medium workability mixes where slump is less sensitive. It compares the density achieved under self-weight with that under full compaction. Given Data / Assumptions: Compaction factor CF = Wp / Wf = 0.95. Standard apparatus and procedure as per test method. Typical classification ranges for workability. Concept / Approach: Compaction factor values close to 1.0 indicate that the concrete nearly achieves full compaction under its own weight—i.e., high workability. Typical guides: CF ≈ 0.7 (very low), ≈ 0.8–0.85 (low), ≈ 0.9–0.92 (medium), and ≈ 0.95 and above (high), subject to mix specifics. Step-by-Step Solution: Compute/interpret CF = 0.95.Map CF to qualitative bands: 0.95 → high workability. Verification / Alternative check: Cross-check with slump expectations; high CF usually corresponds to moderate–high slump if the aggregate grading is favorable and no segregation occurs. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Extremely/very low/low correspond to CF ≤ ~0.85–0.88, far below 0.95. “None of these” is incorrect because the standard classification is “high.” Common Pitfalls: Assuming CF of 1.0 is achievable in practice; minor differences always exist between self-weight and fully compacted conditions. Final Answer: high

Question 3

In cement manufacturing for civil engineering works, which raw material is most commonly used as the principal source of calcium carbonate (the main ingredient in clinker)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Cement clinker is produced by heating a precisely proportioned mix of calcareous and argillaceous materials to form the compounds that give cement its hydraulic properties. Understanding which natural rock supplies the bulk of calcium carbonate is essential for materials engineers and site supervisors who evaluate raw material quality and quarry suitability. Given Data / Assumptions: The question refers to ordinary Portland cement manufacturing. We assume standard kiln processes where raw meal is burned to clinker. Typical raw mix requires a calcareous component (rich in CaCO3) and a clayey/siliceous component. Concept / Approach: The dominant oxide in clinker is CaO, obtained primarily by calcining CaCO3. The most abundant and economical natural source of CaCO3 is limestone. During clinkering, CaCO3 decomposes to CaO and CO2 and then combines with SiO2, Al2O3, and Fe2O3 to form alite, belite, aluminate, and ferrite phases. Other rocks listed either lack sufficient CaCO3 or are not practical sources for the calcareous component. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the needed raw constituent: high CaCO3 for CaO in clinker.Match to rock types: limestone is rich in CaCO3 (often 70–95%).Eliminate unsuitable rocks: sandstone (mostly SiO2), slate (metamorphosed shale, siliceous/aluminous), graphite (carbon, not a carbonate), laterite (may supply Fe/Al, low in CaCO3).Therefore, the principal material is limestone. Verification / Alternative check: Standard cement plant practice uses limestone quarries located near the kiln; quality control targets for the raw mix (LSF, SM, AM) presume limestone as the CaCO3 source. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Slate/Sandstone: inadequate CaCO3; used, if at all, as minor corrective materials. Graphite: elemental carbon; irrelevant for CaO supply. Laterite: iron/alumina contributor, not principal calcareous component. Common Pitfalls: Confusing any sedimentary rock with limestone; overlooking the need for high CaCO3 content and low impurities like MgO and organic matter. Final Answer: Limestone

Question 4

In concrete technology quality control, the slump test is specifically conducted to assess the workability/consistency of which material?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: On construction sites, quick empirical tests are used to judge whether a fresh mix can be placed, compacted, and finished without segregation or bleeding. The most widely used field test is the slump test, a staple of concrete quality control for decades. Given Data / Assumptions: The test uses a standard slump cone (Abrams cone), tamping rod, and non-absorbent base. The material tested is fresh, cohesive, cementitious mix intended for structural placement. Ambient conditions and aggregate grading affect the measured slump. Concept / Approach: The slump test measures the consistency (workability) of fresh concrete by the subsidence (slump) of a conical sample after removing the mold. It does not apply to soils like clay or granular sand alone, nor to neat lime/fly ash without combined concrete constituents. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize the apparatus and procedure uniquely tied to fresh concrete.Relate slump value (in mm) to workability classes (low/medium/high) appropriate for placement method.Conclude that the slump test is for concrete, not for clay, sand, or lime alone. Verification / Alternative check: Codes specify target slumps for structural elements (e.g., footings, slabs, columns) based on reinforcement congestion and placement method. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Clay/Sand: these are soil/aggregate materials; different tests (Atterberg limits for clay, gradation for sand) are used. Lime putty/Fly ash alone: lack coarse/fine aggregate and cement proportions; slump is defined for concrete/mortar mixes. Common Pitfalls: Interpreting high slump as automatically good; ignoring segregation/bleeding and admixture effects. Final Answer: Concrete

Question 5

Fresh concrete rheology: internal friction among concrete ingredients is reduced most effectively by which adjustment to the mix?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: “Internal friction” in fresh concrete refers to resistance to flow caused by particle interlock and paste viscosity. Site crews often adjust water content or aggregate grading to achieve target workability; however, these changes affect segregation and strength. Understanding which change actually reduces interparticle friction is critical. Given Data / Assumptions: Workability depends on water content, paste volume, and aggregate grading/shape. Well-graded aggregates (proper fines to coarse balance) minimize voids and friction. Excess water increases workability but risks bleeding and strength loss. Concept / Approach: Rheology improves when the paste sufficiently lubricates the aggregate skeleton and when aggregate grading reduces particle interlock. Increasing water (within limits) lowers paste viscosity and, if paired with a sound grading that includes appropriate coarse fractions, reduces internal friction. Merely adding fines increases surface area and water demand, often increasing friction at a fixed water content. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the friction sources: angularity, poor grading, insufficient paste.Consider adjustments: more water + proper grading decreases friction and eases compaction.Reject alternatives: less water increases friction; more fines raise water demand; “rich mix” without water change can still be sticky.Therefore, option (d) best reduces internal friction. Verification / Alternative check: Use of water-reducing admixtures can also lower friction without increasing water; the principle remains that lubrication and grading reduce interparticle resistance. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Less water: stiffer, higher internal friction. More fines: higher surface area and paste demand, often stickier. Rich mix only: can become cohesive and less workable if w/c is unchanged. Common Pitfalls: Over-watering to chase slump, leading to segregation and strength loss; ignoring aggregate shape (rounded vs crushed). Final Answer: Using more water along with well-graded (including coarser) aggregates

Question 6

Sieve analysis and fineness modulus: a 20 kg coarse aggregate sample is sieved through 80 mm, 40 mm, 20 mm, 10 mm, 4.75 mm, 2.36 mm, 1.18 mm, 600 μm, 300 μm, and 150 μm sieves with masses retained 0, 2, 8, 6, 4 kg respectively (zero on the remaining…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Fineness modulus (FM) is an index number expressing the average size of particles in an aggregate sample based on a standard series of sieves. It helps in proportioning concrete mixes and assessing grading consistency for quality control. Given Data / Assumptions: Total sample mass = 20 kg. Mass retained (kg) on sieves: 80 mm = 0, 40 mm = 2, 20 mm = 8, 10 mm = 6, 4.75 mm = 4, and 0 on 2.36 mm, 1.18 mm, 600 μm, 300 μm, 150 μm. Standard FM definition: FM = (sum of cumulative % retained on the standard sieve series down to 150 μm) / 100. Concept / Approach: Compute the cumulative percentage retained at each sieve, sum them, and divide by 100. Because the entire 20 kg is retained by 4.75 mm, all finer sieves show 100% cumulative retention. Step-by-Step Solution: Percent retained on each sieve = (mass retained / 20) * 100.Cumulative % retained:80 mm: 0% (0 kg)40 mm: 10% (2/20)20 mm: 50% (2 + 8 = 10 kg → 10/20 = 50%)10 mm: 80% (16/20)4.75 mm: 100% (20/20)2.36 mm and smaller: still 100% (no additional mass).Sum of cumulative % = 0 + 10 + 50 + 80 + 100 + 100 + 100 + 100 + 100 + 100 + 100 = 840.FM = 840 / 100 = 8.40. Verification / Alternative check: Coarse aggregates commonly have FM in the range ~6.0 to 8.5. A grading fully retained above 4.75 mm yields a high FM, consistent with 8.40. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 7.30, 7.35, 7.40, 7.45: each is significantly below the computed FM = 8.40 from the provided data. Common Pitfalls: Confusing “percent retained” with “percent passing,” or forgetting to include the cumulative values for all sieves down to 150 μm in the FM sum. Final Answer: None of these

Question 7

Clinker burning temperature: during the manufacture of ordinary Portland cement, the raw mix is burned in the kiln to form clinker at approximately what peak temperature?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Forming cement clinker requires heating a raw meal of limestone and clay to temperatures where silicates and aluminates form. Knowing the typical peak burning temperature helps understand kiln operations, fuel requirements, and clinker quality. Given Data / Assumptions: Ordinary Portland cement kiln using a preheater/precalciner or long dry process. Clinker mineral formation (alite, belite, aluminate, ferrite) requires high temperature. Question asks for the order of magnitude of burning temperature. Concept / Approach: In the burning zone, temperatures reach roughly 1400–1450°C, sufficient to partially melt the raw mix and form nodules of clinker. Lower temperatures (1000–1200°C) are associated with calcination and early solid-state reactions; much higher temperatures (≥1600°C) are not typical and can damage refractories. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the burning zone range: approximately 1400–1450°C.Select the closest listed temperature: 1400°C.Conclude that option (c) is correct. Verification / Alternative check: Industry texts specify nodulization and liquid phase formation near 1400–1450°C; flame temperature may be higher, but clinker equilibrium aligns with this range. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1000–1200°C: too low for alite formation and nodulization. 1600–1800°C: excessive; risks refractory damage and unnecessary fuel consumption. Common Pitfalls: Confusing flame temperature with clinker bed temperature; assuming higher is always better for clinker quality. Final Answer: 1400°C

Question 8

Hand tool proportions in finishing works: the typical ratio of length to breadth of a wooden float used for plaster or concrete finishing is approximately which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: A wooden float is a simple, ubiquitous finishing tool used to dress plaster and to bring mortar to a uniform texture on concrete surfaces. Standardized proportions improve handling, surface flatness, and worker ergonomics. Given Data / Assumptions: We refer to a conventional hand float (rectangular wooden board with handle). Practical sizes balance coverage per stroke with manageable weight and control. Common site sizes range in the ballpark of a few hundred millimetres in length with modest breadth. Concept / Approach: Field practice often uses floats in the approximate size range of about 325–450 mm length and 50–70 mm breadth for general finishing. This yields a length-to-breadth ratio broadly around 6:1 to 7:1. Such proportions allow the tool to bridge minor undulations while remaining easy to wield with one hand. Step-by-Step Solution: Relate typical dimensions (e.g., 390 mm × 60 mm) → L/B ≈ 6.5.Check alternatives: 4.5 is relatively squat; 8.5 becomes unwieldy for general use.Therefore, select the mid-range practical ratio ≈ 6.5. Verification / Alternative check: Trade catalogs and site practice often list floats with L/B between about 6 and 7; specialty floats (bull floats) differ and are not in scope. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 4.5/5.5: too short for efficient coverage and bridging. 7.5/8.5: increasingly unwieldy for hand control in tight interiors. Common Pitfalls: Confusing hand floats with larger bull floats or magnesium floats used for slabs; assuming one-size-fits-all without considering ergonomics. Final Answer: 6.5

Question 9

Segregation risk in fresh concrete: the likelihood of segregation increases most in which of the following situations?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Segregation is the separation of coarse particles from mortar in fresh concrete. It results in non-uniform strength and honeycombing. Recognizing the conditions that exacerbate segregation helps in preventing defects during placement and compaction. Given Data / Assumptions: Fresh concrete is being handled and placed without special admixtures. Aggregate shape and grading influence stability of the mix. Workability (slump) is increased primarily by water content. Concept / Approach: Higher water content (wetter mix) thins the paste and reduces its ability to keep heavier coarse particles suspended. Larger maximum aggregate size increases the tendency of heavy particles to settle. Coarser grading with insufficient fines reduces the cohesion (paste “mesh”) that would otherwise restrain separation. Step-by-Step Solution: Evaluate each factor's physical effect on particle stability.Wetter → lower viscosity → easier separation.Larger size → greater settling force for coarse particles.Coarser grading → weaker mortar matrix, less cohesion.All contribute to increased segregation; choose “All of the above.” Verification / Alternative check: Practical controls: maintain proper grading, use admixtures (VMA), avoid over-vibration, and optimize slump for placement method. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Each single factor is true, but picking only one ignores the combined mechanisms; “None” contradicts established behavior. Common Pitfalls: Chasing very high slump by adding water in the field; neglecting the role of fines and angularity in cohesion. Final Answer: All of the above

Question 10

Aggregate shape effects: for a fixed water content, workability of concrete will decrease if the aggregates contain an excess of which particle types?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Aggregate shape and texture strongly affect workability, water demand, and packing. Mix designs control the percentage of flaky and elongated particles for this reason. This question examines which shapes reduce workability when water content is held constant. Given Data / Assumptions: Water content is fixed; no admixture change. Aggregates may include flat, elongated, or flaky shapes. Workability is assessed via handling/compaction ease. Concept / Approach: Flat, elongated, flaky, and thin particles have higher surface area-to-volume ratios and interlock easily, leading to higher internal friction and higher water demand. At the same water content, these shapes decrease workability compared to rounded, cubical particles. Step-by-Step Solution: Hold water content constant.Introduce particle shapes with high aspect ratios → increased friction.Observe decreased slump/workability.Therefore, all listed shapes reduce workability; choose “All of the above.” Verification / Alternative check: Standards limit the percentage of combined flaky and elongated particles to maintain workable, pumpable mixes. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Each individual type indeed reduces workability; selecting just one omits the rest. “None” contradicts field experience and code limits. Common Pitfalls: Ignoring particle shape during sourcing; assuming grading alone governs workability regardless of shape. Final Answer: All of the above

Question 11

Nominal mix equivalence: the old designation M 150 concrete (≈ 15 MPa characteristic strength) corresponds approximately to which nominal mix proportion by volume?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Older practice referenced concrete by compressive strength in kg/cm2 (e.g., M 150 ≈ 150 kg/cm2). Modern designations use characteristic cylinder/cube strengths in MPa (e.g., M15 ≈ 15 MPa). Knowing the rough nominal mix that corresponds to these strength classes aids preliminary estimates and small works. Given Data / Assumptions: M 150 ≈ 15 MPa characteristic cube strength. Nominal mixes are by volume: cement : fine aggregate : coarse aggregate. Workability and w/c ratio are adjusted to achieve the target. Concept / Approach: Standard nominal mixes (legacy) map approximately as: 1:3:6 → M10, 1:2:4 → M15, 1:1.5:3 → M20, 1:1:2 → M25 (approximate). Thus M 150 aligns with 1 : 2 : 4. Actual strength depends on water/cement ratio, aggregate, and curing, so these are indicative starting points. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify M 150 as ≈ 15 MPa → corresponds to M15.Recall nominal mapping: M15 → 1 : 2 : 4.Therefore select 1 : 2 : 4. Verification / Alternative check: Many departmental schedules and handbooks list 1:2:4 as the standard nominal mix for M15 works such as slabs and beams in non-critical applications. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1:3:6 (leaner) ≈ M10. 1:1:2 (richer) ≈ M25. 1:1.5:3 (richer) ≈ M20. Common Pitfalls: Treating nominal proportions as guarantees of strength without controlling w/c ratio and curing. Final Answer: 1 : 2 : 4

Question 12

Aggregate grading for quality concrete: to ensure durable, workable concrete with reduced voids and economy of paste, which type of aggregate should be preferred?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Aggregates comprise the majority of concrete volume. Their grading controls void content, paste demand, workability, pumpability, and strength. Selecting the right grading is a core decision in mix design. Given Data / Assumptions: Objective: produce workable, economical concrete with minimal segregation and shrinkage. Paste (cement + water + admixtures) is costly and shrinks; reducing paste volume by lowering aggregate voids is desirable. Practical site control of grading via combined sieve analysis is assumed. Concept / Approach: A well-graded aggregate (continuous distribution of sizes) minimizes voids by allowing smaller particles to fill the gaps between larger ones, thus reducing the paste required to fill remaining voids. This improves economy and often improves durability. Single-sized or two-sized blends leave more voids, increasing paste demand and shrinkage risk. Step-by-Step Solution: Compare grading options in terms of void content.Well-graded → lowest voids → least paste → improved economy and performance.Therefore select “Graded (well-graded) aggregates.” Verification / Alternative check: Mix design methods (e.g., DOE/ACI) encourage target combined grading envelopes for optimum packing and workability. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Single- or two-sized: high voids, high paste demand. Only coarse/fine: imbalanced grading, poor workability and cohesion. Common Pitfalls: Assuming strength comes only from cement content; ignoring packing and particle shape effects. Final Answer: Graded (well-graded) aggregates

Question 13

Concrete technology: proper proportioning of concrete ingredients ensures which of the following desirable properties in construction practice?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Proportioning concrete means selecting the right ratio of cement, aggregates, water, and admixtures to meet specific performance requirements. This step directly affects the concrete’s quality in terms of strength, durability, and impermeability. Given Data / Assumptions: Concrete mix includes cement, sand, coarse aggregates, water, and optionally admixtures. Performance metrics: strength, workability, durability, impermeability. Proper proportioning per IS codes or ACI mix design methods is assumed. Concept / Approach: Correct proportioning ensures enough paste to coat aggregates, maintain workability, and provide a dense matrix. Balanced water–cement ratio ensures strength and reduces permeability. Adequate cement and proper grading of aggregates enhance durability and water resistance. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify target properties: compressive strength, slump/workability, resistance to shrinkage and cracking.Relate each property to mix design: W/C ratio → strength/durability; grading → workability; low permeability → water resistance.Conclude that all listed properties are achieved through proper proportioning. Verification / Alternative check: Standards such as IS 10262 (India) and ACI 211 confirm that proportioning aims simultaneously at strength, durability, and workability. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Choosing only strength/workability ignores durability and impermeability. Focusing only on water tightness or resistance misses the holistic design goals. Common Pitfalls: Overemphasis on strength without considering workability or durability, leading to cracks and permeability issues. Final Answer: all the above

Question 14

Concrete measurement practices: which of the following statements about weighing and measuring ingredients, and finished concrete volume, are correct?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Concrete batching involves measuring each ingredient precisely. Standardized measurement practices ensure consistency, quality, and comparability across sites and batches. Given Data / Assumptions: Ingredients include cement, water, fine and coarse aggregates. Commonly used cement bag weight is 50 kg in India. Output of concrete is measured in volume (cubic metres). Concept / Approach: Cement and aggregates are generally weighed in kilograms, while water can be measured in litres. Finished concrete is always accounted for in cubic metres for billing and structural design. 20 bags of cement (20 × 50 kg) = 1000 kg = 1 tonne, confirming the statement. Step-by-Step Solution: Cement: measured by weight in kg.Water/aggregates: litres (volume) for water, weight/volume for aggregates.Concrete output: cubic metres.20 bags × 50 kg = 1000 kg = 1 tonne. Verification / Alternative check: Specifications in IS 456 and IS 10262 clearly refer to batching by weight, and payment for concrete is always in cubic metres. Why Other Options Are Wrong: No single statement is wrong; each reflects industry practice. Common Pitfalls: Assuming aggregates are always measured in litres; weight batching is more accurate but volume batching is used in small sites. Final Answer: All the above

Question 15

Concrete admixtures: workability of concrete can be improved by adding which of the following types of agents or compounds?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Concrete workability refers to how easily concrete can be mixed, placed, compacted, and finished. Workability can be enhanced by incorporating specific admixtures that alter the mix properties. Given Data / Assumptions: Workability measured by slump, compaction factor, flow tests. Admixtures are added in small quantities. Concept / Approach: Air-entraining agents create microscopic bubbles that act like ball bearings, improving flow. Foaming agents increase plasticity. Oily agents and certain aluminium compounds modify surface tension, enhance lubrication, or release gases that improve workability. Step-by-Step Solution: List agents: all given types influence workability positively.Air-entraining: enhances cohesiveness and workability.Foaming/oily/aluminium compounds: each aids plasticity or flow.Hence, all listed options contribute to improved workability. Verification / Alternative check: Handbooks on admixtures confirm a wide range of compounds can improve workability, though efficiency varies. Why Other Options Are Wrong: No single option is wrong; each has some role in workability enhancement. Common Pitfalls: Confusing strength-improving admixtures (like silica fume) with workability-improving ones. Final Answer: all the above

Question 16

Concrete composition: concrete is primarily composed of which of the following materials?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Concrete is the most widely used construction material. Its composition determines strength, durability, and workability. The main ingredients are cement, water, and aggregates, with admixtures added to modify properties. Given Data / Assumptions: Cement: binder that hydrates and hardens. Aggregates: fine and coarse, make up 70–80% of volume. Water: activates cement hydration. Admixtures: optional, enhance workability, durability, or special properties. Concept / Approach: Cement + water form paste, coating and binding aggregates. Aggregates provide volume stability and strength. Admixtures, though small in volume, are crucial for controlling workability, curing, or long-term performance. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify key ingredients: cement, water, aggregates.Add optional modifiers: admixtures.Combine all → all the above. Verification / Alternative check: Any textbook definition of concrete mentions all these as components. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Each single choice ignores other equally critical components. Common Pitfalls: Thinking only cement and water matter; aggregates are crucial to performance. Final Answer: all the above

Question 17

Concrete strength classification: what is the permissible compressive strength of M300 grade concrete expressed in kg/cm^2?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Concrete grades are designated by their characteristic compressive strength after 28 days of curing. The letter “M” refers to mix, and the number denotes compressive strength in N/mm^2. This can be converted to kg/cm^2 for interpretation. Given Data / Assumptions: M300 grade concrete. Standard conversion: 1 N/mm^2 = 10.2 kg/cm^2 (approx.). Concept / Approach: M300 grade = 30 N/mm^2 = 30 × 10.2 = 306 kg/cm^2 ≈ 300 kg/cm^2. This is the permissible compressive strength value in the given unit system. Step-by-Step Solution: M300 → 30 N/mm^2.Convert: 30 × 10.2 = 306 kg/cm^2.Rounded → 300 kg/cm^2. Verification / Alternative check: Design tables and IS code conversions confirm this mapping between N/mm^2 and kg/cm^2. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 100–250 kg/cm^2 correspond to lower concrete grades such as M10–M25. Common Pitfalls: Confusing kg/cm^2 and N/mm^2 units, leading to major errors in design. Final Answer: 300 kg/cm2

Question 18

Concrete construction practices: construction joints are generally provided at which of the following positions or conditions?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Construction joints are planned discontinuities in concrete work to accommodate interruptions. Proper placement avoids structural weakness and ensures load transfer. Given Data / Assumptions: Monolithic construction is ideal but often impractical. Joint positions are chosen to minimize adverse effects. Concept / Approach: Joints should be at locations of minimum stress (low BM and SF), at support points, or at natural breaks (like window sills). In large continuous structures, spacing rules like 18 m apply. Step-by-Step Solution: (a) Walls: sill level joints are convenient and aesthetic.(b) Structural members: joints at low stress regions are safe.(c) Supports: natural cut-off point.(d) Long structures: spacing provides control.Thus, all apply. Verification / Alternative check: IS 456 provides guidance for joint placement at low stress zones and architectural breaks. Why Other Options Are Wrong: No option is wrong; all are valid placement criteria. Common Pitfalls: Providing joints at high stress regions, leading to cracks or leakage. Final Answer: all the above

Question 19

Cement types: the high early strength of rapid hardening cement at initial stages is mainly due to which factor?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Rapid hardening cement is a specialized type designed to gain strength faster than ordinary Portland cement (OPC). It is often used in road repairs, precast work, and cold-weather concreting. Given Data / Assumptions: Rapid hardening cement must achieve high strength in 3 days equivalent to OPC's 7 days. We seek the main reason for early high strength. Concept / Approach: The fineness of cement greatly influences hydration rate. Finer grinding provides a larger surface area for chemical reaction with water, accelerating hydration of tricalcium silicate, the main strength-giving compound. Although burning temperature and lime/tricalcium content affect long-term properties, early strength gain is chiefly due to fine grinding. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify property: early strength gain.Match with factor: finer grinding increases surface area.Thus, answer: finer grinding. Verification / Alternative check: IS 269 commentary states rapid hardening cement is manufactured by grinding cement more finely and controlling composition. Why Other Options Are Wrong: High burning: affects compound formation, not early strength directly. Increased lime content: influences long-term strength and soundness. Higher tricalcium silicate: contributes, but the decisive factor is fine grinding. Common Pitfalls: Confusing chemical composition changes with physical fineness factor. Final Answer: finer grinding

Question 20

Concrete operations: the process of proper and accurate measurement of concrete ingredients to maintain uniform proportion is known as what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Accurate proportioning of ingredients is the first critical step in concrete production. This ensures that the mix design requirements are met and that concrete quality is consistent. Given Data / Assumptions: Ingredients: cement, sand, aggregates, water, admixtures. Uniformity in every batch is critical. Two common methods: volume batching and weight batching. Concept / Approach: Batching refers to measuring and proportioning ingredients before mixing. Volume batching uses gauge boxes, while weight batching is more accurate and preferred in modern plants. Mixing, by contrast, refers to combining ingredients after batching. Curing is done after placement. Grading refers to particle size distribution of aggregates. Step-by-Step Solution: Define process: measurement/proportioning = batching.Differentiate: mixing = combining, curing = hydration care, grading = particle size check.Answer: batching. Verification / Alternative check: IS 4926 on RMC specifies batching by weight as mandatory. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Grading: only about aggregates, not measurement of all ingredients. Curing: post-placement step. Mixing: later stage, not measuring stage. None of these: incorrect because batching is correct term. Common Pitfalls: Confusing batching with mixing; both are distinct processes in concreting. Final Answer: batching

Concrete Technology Questions