Standard sand for cement testing in India: the sand used nowadays for standard cement tests (e.g., mortar strength) is obtained from which location?

Introduction / Context:
Standardized testing requires uniform materials to minimize variability. For cement mortar strength tests in India, a designated source of natural sand ensures consistent grading, shape, and mineralogy so that differences in results reflect cement performance rather than aggregate variability.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question refers to the officially recognized source of “standard sand”.
• Used in mortar cube tests at fixed cement:sand ratios and water consistency.
• Historical and current practice point to a named locality.

Concept / Approach:
Indian standards specify Ennore sand (from near Chennai) as the standard sand for testing cement. This material is processed to meet tight grading and cleanliness requirements and is widely distributed to labs for comparative testing.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the Indian standard source: Ennore.Select the option matching Ennore (Madras/Chennai).

Verification / Alternative check:
Testing laboratories procure “Ennore standard sand” per IS specifications, confirming the practice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Other listed cities are not the designated standardized source in Indian practice.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing locally available river sand with standardized test sand; overlooking the importance of consistent grading in comparative tests.

Final Answer:
Ennore (Madras/Chennai)