Hello Dilip,

But the finer the cement, the faster the C3A hydration reactions will occur and this will tend to reduce the setting time. Whether or not you need to adjust SO3 content at all depends on the magnitude of the fineness increase and the C3A content of the cement.

Regards,

Ted.

Is it C3A or C3S that contributes to early strength of cement?

Ted, can you please explain the significance of each calcium silicates?

Thank you.

Hello Norew,

All clinker components contribute either directly or indirectly to cement strength in some degree.

However most research confirms that C3S content is of overriding importance with respect to cement reactivity and early strength development.  And, while the major part of C3S's contribution to strength happens within the first 28days, strength increases from 28 days onwards are primarily a function of C2S content.

C3A has a minor strength contribution and C4AF's contribution is marginal to none, both mostly at later ages.

Regards,

Ted.