The Effect of Cement Fineness on Concrete

Bureau of Reclamation experience over the last 35 years, both in field work and laboratory studies, has demonstrated many ways in which cement fineness affects concrete properties. Studies include observations with both air-entrained and nonair-entrained concrete. All results are compared on the basis of fineness reported by the Blaine method. Properties of concrete for which data related to the effect of fineness are presented include: bleeding, water requirement, workability, compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, and deterioration caused by freezing and thawing. In general, it has been found over the years that cements meeting the requirements of the Federal specifications for portland cement have not created concreting problems which could be significantly influenced by changes in cement fineness.