Question:

Which of the following phase is responsible for Strength of Cement?

Show Hint

\(C_3S\) gives early strength to Portland cement, while \(C_2S\) contributes to later strength.
  • \(C_2S\)
  • \(C_3A\)
  • \(C_3S\)
  • \(C_4AF\)
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Concept: The main clinker phases in Portland cement are \(C_3S\), \(C_2S\), \(C_3A\), and \(C_4AF\). Among these, \(C_3S\), also called alite, is mainly responsible for early strength.

Step 1:
\(C_3S\) means tricalcium silicate. \[ C_3S = 3CaO\cdot SiO_2 \]

Step 2:
During hydration, \(C_3S\) reacts with water and forms calcium silicate hydrate gel. \[ C_3S + H_2O \rightarrow C-S-H \text{ gel} + Ca(OH)_2 \]

Step 3:
The \(C-S-H\) gel gives strength to cement paste.

Step 4:
\(C_2S\) contributes to later strength, but \(C_3S\) is mainly responsible for early and major strength development. Therefore, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{C_3S} \]
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