Portland cement M500: technical characteristics and storage rules

Virtually every person had a moment in life associated with construction. This could be a foundation building, tile laying or a screed fill to level the floor. These three types of work combines the mandatory use of cement. Portland cement (PC) M500 is considered the most indispensable and durable of its kind.

Composition

Depending on the brand, the composition of the cement is also varied, on which the characteristics of the mixture depend. First of all, clay and hydrated lime are mixed, the mixture is heated. This forms clinker, to which is added gypsum or potassium sulfate. Introduction of additives is the final stage of cement preparation.

The composition of PC M500 includes the following oxides (as the percentage decreases):

  • calcium;
  • silicic;
  • aluminum;
  • iron;
  • magnesium;
  • potassium.

The demand for portland cement M500 can be explained by its composition. The clay rocks underlying it are completely ecological. They are also resistant to aggressive environment and corrosion.

Specifications

PC M500 has a fairly high quality characteristics. As mentioned above, it is especially appreciated for its reliability and durability.

The main characteristics of Portland cement:

  • quick setting and hardening already from 45 minutes after use;
  • transfers up to 70 freeze-thaw cycles;
  • able to withstand bending to 63 atmospheres;
  • hygroscopic expansion of no more than 10 mm;
  • grinding fineness is 92%;
  • dry compressive strength of the mixture - 59.9 MPa, which is 591 atmosphere.

The density of cement is an informative indicator, indicating the quality of the binder component. It depends on the strength and reliability of the constructed structure. The higher the bulk density, the better the voids will be filled, which, in turn, will reduce the porosity of the product.

The bulk density of portland cement varies from 1100 to 1600 kg per cubic meter. m. For calculations use the value of 1300 kg per cubic meter. m. The true density of the PC is 3000 - 3200 kg per cubic meter. m

The storage and operation of cement M500 in bags is up to two months. Packing information usually indicates 12 months. Provided that it will be stored in a dry, closed room in a sealed package. (bags wrapped with polyethylene).

Regardless of the storage conditions, the characteristics of Portland cement will decrease, so do not buy for the future. Fresh cement is better.

Marking

GOST 10178-85 from 01/01/1987 assumes the availability of the following information on the packaging:

  • brand, in this case M500;
  • amount of additives: D0, D5, D20.

Letter designations:

  • PC (ShPC) - Portland cement (slag Portland cement);
  • B - fast setting;
  • Submarine - plasticized composition has high frost resistance;
  • H - the composition corresponds to GOST.

On September 1, 2004, another GOST 31108-2003 was introduced, which in December 2017 was replaced by GOST 31108-2016, according to which there is the following classification:

  • CEM I - Portland cement;
  • CEM II - Portland cement with mineral additives;
  • CEM III - Portland cement;
  • CEM IV - pozzolanic cement;
  • CEM V - composite cement.

Additives that must contain cement are governed by GOST 24640-91.

Supplements

The additives in cement are divided into three types:

  • Additives of the material composition. They affect the process of hydration and hardening of cement. In turn, they are divided into active minerals and fillers.
  • Additives regulating properties. They determine the setting time, strength and water consumption of cement.
  • Technological additives. They affect the grinding process, but not its properties.

The number of additives in the PCC is characterized by the marking D0, D5 and D20. D0 is a pure mixture that provides the prepared and solidified solution with resistance to low temperature and moisture. D5 and D20 mean the presence of 5 and 20% additives, respectively. They contribute to increased resistance to moisture and low temperature, as well as resistance to corrosion.

Additives improve the standard characteristics of portland cement.

Application

The range of application of the PC M500 is quite wide.

It includes:

  • monolithic foundations, slabs and columns on a reinforcing base;
  • mortars for plaster;
  • solutions for brick and block masonry;
  • road construction;
  • construction of runways on aerodromes;
  • structures in the high groundwater zone;
  • structures that require fast curing;
  • bridge construction;
  • railway construction;
  • construction of power lines.

Thus, we can say that Portland cement M500 is a universal material. It is suitable for all types of construction work.

To prepare a cement mortar is quite simple. At 5 kg of cement will require from 0.7 to 1.05 liters of water. The amount of water depends on the desired thickness of the solution.

The proportions of cement and sand for different types of construction:

  • high-strength structures - 1: 2;
  • masonry mortars - 1: 4;
  • others - 1: 5.

During storage, the cement loses its qualities. So, in 12 months it can turn from a powdery product into a monolithic stone. Cement with lumps is not suitable for the preparation of the solution.

Packing and packaging

Cement is produced in large quantities. Immediately after production, it is distributed in hermetic towers with a powerful ventilation system, which lowers the level of air humidity. There it can be stored no more than two weeks.

Further, according to GOST, it is packaged in paper bags containing no more than 51 kg of gross weight. A feature of such bags are plastic layers. Cement is packaged in 25, 40 and 50 kg.

On the bags must be put the date of packing.And the alternation of paper and plastic layers should be a reliable protection from moisture.

As mentioned earlier, the cement should be stored in an airtight container that provides waterproofing. The tightness of the packaging is due to the fact that, in contact with air, cement absorbs moisture, which adversely affects its properties. The contact of carbon dioxide and cement leads to a reaction between the components of its composition. Cement should be stored at temperatures up to 50 degrees Celsius. Every 2 months, the cement container must be turned over.

Tips

  • As mentioned above, the cement is Packed in bags from 25 to 50 kg. But can also supply material in bulk. In this case, the cement must be protected from precipitation and used in the shortest possible time.
  • Cement must be purchased shortly before construction work in small batches. Be sure to pay attention to the date of manufacture and the integrity of the container.
  • The price of portland cement M500 for a bag of 50 kg ranges from 250 to 280 rubles. Wholesalers, in turn, offer a discount in the region of 5-8%, which depends on the size of the purchase.

On the intricacies of the choice of cement, see below.

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Information provided for reference purposes. For construction issues, always consult a specialist.

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