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Founded in 1904 and headquartered in Farmington Hills, Michigan, USA, the American Concrete Institute is a leading authority and resource worldwide for the development, dissemination, and adoption of its consensus-based standards, technical resources, educational programs, and proven expertise for individuals and organizations involved in concrete design, construction, and materials, who share a commitment to pursuing the best use of concrete.
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Home > Tools > Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the difference between setting and hardening? A. Setting describes the stiffening of the fresh cement paste. Onset of rigidity occurs. Then hardening begins, which indicates that a useful and measurable strength is developing. Setting and hardening result from the continuing reaction between the cementitious material and water. References: SP-1(02); ACI Physical Testing of Cement Training Video; The Contractor's Guide to Quality Concrete Construction; ASTM C403; ASTM C191 Topics in Concrete: Cementitious Material; Concrete Fundamentals; Materials
Q. What is the difference between setting and hardening?
A. Setting describes the stiffening of the fresh cement paste. Onset of rigidity occurs. Then hardening begins, which indicates that a useful and measurable strength is developing. Setting and hardening result from the continuing reaction between the cementitious material and water.
References: SP-1(02); ACI Physical Testing of Cement Training Video; The Contractor's Guide to Quality Concrete Construction; ASTM C403; ASTM C191
Topics in Concrete: Cementitious Material; Concrete Fundamentals; Materials
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