Fineness is one of the basic properties checked in cement quality control. Finer particles have more surface area in contact with water, so the cement hydrates faster and gains early strength sooner. Very fine cement can also raise water demand and heat of hydration.
Measuring specific surface
The Blaine air permeability method packs a cement sample into a cell to a set porosity and measures how long a fixed volume of air takes to pass through the bed. The time is used with calibration constants to work out the specific surface in cm²/g.
Supporting tests
Fineness results are read together with consistency, setting time and soundness. A Vicat apparatus, Le-Chatelier mould and cube moulds complete a basic cement testing setup.
