Table 1 Typical properties of the Portland cement used (CEM 1 52.5 N).

Insoluble residue: % by mass

2.0

5.0 maximum

Sulphur trioxide: % by mass

2.0

4.0 maximum

Loss on ignition: % by mass

2.5

5.0 maximum

Chlorides: % by mass

 < 0.01

0.1 maximum

Setting times:

Initial: minutes

Final: hours

125

2.5

45 minimum

No requirement

Specific area (Blaine): m²/kg

400

No requirement

Compressive strength (mortar prism EN 196-1):

 At 2 days (MPa)

 At 28 days (MPa)

28

 ± 58

≥ 20.0

≥ 52.5 no maximum

Soundness:

Le Chatelier Expansion (mm)

1

10 maximum

Densities:

Relative density

Bulk density, aerated, kg/m³

Bulk density, as packed, kg/m³

± 3.14

1100–1300

± 1500

Approximate volume: 50 kg bag, ℓ

± 33