#Cement test apparatus

[heicodynamics]

The construction industry is often involved in a wide range of tests that require different test equipment. In addition to simple compression tests, test standards such as ASTM C39, ASTM C109, ASTM C469, and ASTM C1609 are among the test methods that can be followed to determine the mechanical properties of concrete specimens.

Mechanical testing of concrete

Specimens of concrete of specified dimensions are prepared, cast-cured, subjected to appropriate instructions or standardization to determine whether the mechanical properties of concrete specimens meet the strength and deflection requirements for the intended use, and tested under the approved test method. A manual or automated analysis generates a resistance report at the end of the test.

Automating specific tests and how to achieve them

The benefits of self-monitored concrete testing include reduced testing time, elimination of data entry errors, and faster delivery of results. Automation has automatic control of machines and automatic calculation of tested properties. If the machine is controlled, it will be operated by the controller or its software. You enter the test routines to be run and the analyzes to be calculated into the system, and the results are generated automatically.

Is manual or automated operation better for concrete testing?

Often a manually operated system is sufficient for a given test application. However, some testing standards governing the concrete industry require stress rate feedback that manual operation cannot achieve.

Some concrete tests require a load factor that can be verified throughout the test, as concrete is sensitive to the load factor in terms of its compressive strength. Some ASTM standards, such as ASTM C39, specify or limit the load factor to specific values or ranges to ensure consistency within and between laboratories.

A digital scale does not control the tester, so the operator must manually adjust the valves to achieve the set speed. Therefore, standards requiring continuous testing at low speeds with manually operated systems cannot be strictly followed. It is recommended to use a servo controller with a control unit to control the movement of the machine for such tests. Cement testing equipment specifically designed for concrete testing, closed-loop hydraulic servo testing machines and electromechanical universal testing machines that can be used to perform various material tests.

Cement testing machine manufacturers offer a wide range of concrete testing equipment, including indicators for use with existing manual control systems, control units for servo-controlled machine reassembly, Mega Force concrete testing systems designed explicitly for concrete testing and hydraulic testers. Tests are performed on a single system with accurate and reproducible results.

[concreteconsultingservices22]

Cement Testing: Ensuring Quality and Durability in Construction Projects 🏗️

Cement is a crucial component in the construction industry, acting as the binding element in concrete, mortar, and other building materials.

To ensure that structures are safe, durable, and meet design specifications, cement must undergo rigorous testing.

This article delves into the various tests conducted on cement, their significance, and the methods used.

Importance of Cement Testing 🏢

Testing cement is vital for several reasons:

Quality Assurance: Ensures that the cement meets industry standards and specifications.

Safety: Guarantees the structural integrity and longevity of buildings and infrastructure.

Performance Prediction: Helps in predicting the performance of cement in different environmental conditions.

Cost-Efficiency: Identifies potential issues early, preventing costly repairs or replacements. If you are looking for Cement Testing then you may visit this website https://c3sinc.com/

Types of Cement Tests 🧪

1. Fineness Test

Purpose: To determine the particle size of cement.

Method:

Sieve Test: Passing cement through a standard 90 µm sieve.

Air Permeability Method (Blaine’s Method): Measuring the surface area per unit weight.

Significance: Finer cement testing lead to a larger surface area, enhancing the hydration process and resulting in stronger concrete.

2. Consistency Test

Purpose: To determine the water content required to produce a cement paste of standard consistency.

Method: Using the Vicat apparatus to measure the penetration of a plunger into the cement paste.

3. Setting Time Test ⏱️

Purpose: To measure the time it takes for cement to start and complete the setting process.

Method: Utilizing the Vicat apparatus to observe initial and final setting times.

Significance: Ensures that the cement sets within the desired time frame, which is crucial for construction scheduling and workability.

4. Soundness Test

Purpose: To ensure that the cement does not undergo excessive expansion after setting, which can lead to cracking.

Method: Le Chatelier apparatus is used to measure the expansion of cement specimens.

Significance: Guarantees the dimensional stability of concrete structures.

5. Strength Test 💪

Purpose: To determine the compressive and tensile strength of cement.

Method: Conducting compressive strength tests on mortar cubes or cylinders and tensile strength tests on cement briquettes.

Significance: Provides insight into the load-bearing capacity and durability of the cement.

6. Heat of Hydration Test

Purpose: To measure the amount of heat generated during the hydration process of cement.

Method: Using a calorimeter to measure the heat evolution.

Advanced Testing Techniques 🔬

With technological advancements, several sophisticated testing methods have emerged:

X-ray Diffraction (XRD): Identifies the crystalline phases present in cement.

Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM): Examines the microstructure of cement particles.

Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA): Measures weight changes in cement as it is heated, providing insights into its composition and thermal stability.

Conclusion 🏠

Cement testing is an indispensable part of the construction industry, ensuring that the material used is of high quality and fit for purpose. From basic tests like fineness and consistency to advanced techniques like XRD and SEM, these tests help in predicting the performance and longevity of cement in various environmental conditions. By rigorously testing cement, we can build safer, more durable, and cost-effective structures, contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of the construction sector.

[iso-updates]

Automation & Data Analytics in Industry: Implications for CE Marking for Cement

In a period characterized by mechanical development, the cement business is going through a critical transformation through the reception of digital advancements. The integration of robotization, data analytics, and other computerized headways isn't just changing and revolutionizing processes but also reshaping the scene of regulatory compliance, especially with regard to CE Marking for Cement certification.

The cement business, long known for its conventional and heavy processes, is seeing a groundbreaking wave driven by computerized technologies. From sensor-loaded ovens to simulated intelligence-controlled process enhancement, Industry 4.0 is changing cement manufacturing, promising expanded productivity and sustainability as well as new challenges for exploring the consistently significant CE marking compliance.

Digital Revolution in the Dusty Arena: 

Cement plants are embracing plenty of digitalized planning:

Sensor networks: Implanted sensors gather constant information on unrefined components, temperatures, emanations, and other basic boundaries, giving unmatched bits of knowledge into production processes.

Artificial intelligence and Machine Learning: Calculations investigate the gathered information to enhance natural substance mixes, foresee gear disappointments, and robotize process changes, prompting work on quality and diminished margin time.

Digital twins: Virtual copies of actual plants take into account recreations and testing of new creation situations, limiting threats and amplifying effectiveness.

Cloud computing: Secure cloud stages have tremendous measures of information, empowering remote marking, joint effort, and information-driven navigation.

The Rise of Digital Technologies in Cement Production: 

Computerized change in the cement business includes the implement of smart advances into different phases of the production cycle. Computerization, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), man-made consciousness, and information investigation are among the key drivers changing customary assembling practices.

Automation Enhancing Operational Efficiency: Computerization technologies, like Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), are smoothing out creation processes. Ongoing marking and control of apparatus lead to improved functional productivity and diminished manual mistakes.

Data Analytics for Predictive Maintenance: Data Analytics stages investigate sensor information to anticipate gear disappointments before they happen. Prescient maintenance limits margin time, increments apparatus life expectancy, and enhances support costs.

Smart Sensors for Quality Control: High-level sensors screen the planning and nature of unrefined components and the cement item progressively. Quick input considers opportune changes, guaranteeing steady quality and compliance with principles.

IIoT Connectivity for Supply Chain Optimization: The Industrial Internet of Things empowers consistent correspondence across the whole store network. Further developed coordination with providers and merchants guarantees a more dexterous reaction to changes in popularity and supply.

Implications for CE Marking Certification: 

The coordination of advanced innovations in cement creation has significant ramifications for CE Marking certification. As the business develops, so do the CE Marking Cement Products standards security and similarity. This is the way advanced change impacts CE Marking:

Data Security and Privacy Compliance: With the expanded dependence on advanced systems, guaranteeing the security and protection of information becomes vital. CE Marking expects makers to conform to information security guidelines, and the digitalization of cycles requires vigorous online protection measures.

Digital Traceability for Compliance Documentation: Computerized change empowers more strong discernibly all through the production and supply network. CE marking requests complete documentation of similarity, and advanced discernibly works with exact and transparency record-keeping.

Interoperability of Smart Systems: CE marking standards expect products to meet explicit safety and implementation measures. Guaranteeing the interoperability of smart systems becomes essential to satisfying these guidelines and acquiring and keeping up with the CE Marking certificate.

Adaptability to Evolving Standards: Advanced systems innately offer adaptability and versatility. Makers can use advanced innovations to rapidly adjust to changes in CE Marking for Cement, guaranteeing progressing compliance.

Challenges and Opportunities: 

While the advantages of computerized change are obvious, challenges, for example, the requirement for a talented labor force and the standardization of advanced innovations should be tended to. A joint effort between industry partners and regulatory bodies is fundamental to lay out clear rules for CE Marking in the computerized age.

Navigating the New Landscape: 

To guarantee fruitful computerized change while exploring CE marking compliance, cement producers can:

Develop a robust data governance strategy: Characterize information proprietorship, access controls, and security conventions to keep up with information respectability and compliance.

Invest in cybersecurity: Execute strong network protection measures to shield systems from cyberattacks and defend data security.

Engage with regulators and notified bodies: Proactively draw in regulatory bodies and informed bodies to talk about the difficulties and potential open doors presented by computerized change for CE Marking for Cement.

Advocate for updated standards and guidance: Add to the advancement of refreshed guidelines and direction that explicitly address the difficulties of CE marking in digitalized cement production.

The Road Ahead:

Digitalization transformation presents an exceptional chance for the cement business to accomplish unmatched effectiveness, sustainability, and item quality. Notwithstanding, exploring CE Marking compliance in this new time requires a proactive strategy with an emphasis on information trustworthiness, network safety, transparency, and commitment to regulatory bodies.

By embracing these contemplations, cement makers can use the force of Industry 4.0 while unhesitatingly guaranteeing their CE Marking Cement Products meet the fundamental safety, security, and environmental requirements of the CE Marking.

Conclusion:

The digitalized transformation in cement production isn't simply a mechanical shift; it's a reconsidering of how the business works. As cement makers embrace computerized advances to improve proficiency and sustainability, they should simultaneously explore the developing scene of the CE Marking for Cement.

By proactively tending to the ramifications of digital transform on regulatory compliance, the business can introduce an evolving time of advancement, security, and quality in cement manufacture.

[duckpaddling]

The weapons Israel tests on Palestinians will be used against all of us

by Chris Hedges, The Real News Network December 8, 2023

Whether it's drone technology or the infamous Pegasus spy software, Israel has long developed and refined repressive technologies used by governments around the world by testing them on Palestinians. Antony Loewenstein, journalist and author of The Palestine Laboratory: How Israel Exports the Technology of Occupation Around the World, joins The Chris Hedges Report for a deep dive into the disturbing links between Israeli Apartheid, the arms industry, and global repression of civilian populations.

Studio Production: David Hebden, Adam Cole, Cameron Granadino Post-Production: Adam Coley, Kayla Rivara Opening Sequence by: Cameron Granadino

Transcript

Chris Hedges:  The Palestinians are human laboratory rats to the Israeli military intelligence services and arms and technology industries. Israel's drones, surveillance technology including spyware, facial recognition software, and biometric gathering infrastructure, along with smart fences, experimental bombs, and AI-controlled machine guns are all tried out on the captive population in Gaza, often with lethal results. These weapons and technologies are then certified as "battle-tested" and sold around the world.

Israel is the tenth largest arms dealer on the planet and sells its technology and weapons to an estimated 130 nations, including military dictatorships in Asia and Latin America. Israeli weapons sales totaled $12.5 billion last year. Its close relationship with these military internal security surveillance, intelligence gathering, and law enforcement agencies explains the fulsome support Israel's allies give to its genocidal campaign in Gaza.

When Colombian president, Gustavo Petro refused to condemn the October 7 attack by Palestinian resistance groups as a terrorist attack and said, "Terrorism is killing innocent children in Palestine," Israel immediately halted all sales of defense and security equipment to Columbia. This global cabal dedicated to permanent war and keeping its populations monitored and controlled has hundreds of billions of dollars a year in sales.

These technologies are cementing into place a supernational, corporate totalitarianism: A world where populations are enslaved in ways that past totalitarian regimes could only imagine. It is not a far cry from Gaza to the camps and detention centers set up for migrants fleeing to Europe from Africa and the Middle East. It is not a far cry from the carpet bombing in Gaza to the endless wars in the Middle East and the global south. It is not a far cry from the anti-terrorism laws used to criminalize dissent in Israel to the anti-terrorism laws introduced in Europe and the US. Joining me to discuss this use of Palestinians as human guinea pigs for the Israeli weapons and technology industry is Antony Loewenstein, author of The Palestine Laboratory: How Israel Exports the Technology of Occupation Around the World.

So your book, which is a great read, lays out the rise of this arms industry, which originally was a state industry and then privatized. One of the points you made at the end of the book, which is very fascinating, is how much of the apparatus to keep the Palestinians under control is essentially now handed over to private firms. I want to quote Elliott Abrams, whom I've interviewed, "The role of Israel is to serve as a model, an example in military might, in innovation, in encouraging childbirth." This is one of the themes of your book that much of Israel's support and power derives from its connection to this global arms network. So let's lay out some of the innovations that Israel has pioneered. We can begin with Pegasus and drones. They're at the forefront of some of the most advanced technologies and weapon systems that are used to control subject populations.

Antony Loewenstein:  In some ways, the genesis of the book was partly due to some of the reporting around Pegasus a few years ago. Listeners or viewers will be aware that Pegasus is a spyware tool that is made by NSO Group, which is an Israeli company and it was started to be used about 15 or so years ago by a range of countries. The country that it was first mostly used in was Mexico as various governments there were desperate to fight a failed drug war, and it only made the violence worse. But what's interesting back then and also now is Mexico remains, Chris, to this day, the world's biggest and most obsessive user of Pegasus. Obsessed.

Whether it's the right-wing government or nominally left-wing government, Pegasus is now in dozens of countries. I don't even know how many, I think about 70, 80, or 90. In some ways, the reason I partly wrote the book was to say that the media was obsessed with Pegasus. Pegasus is an important investigation; It's a tool that is put on the phones of activists and human rights workers in countless countries. And it breaches human rights. That's terrible. But the problem was that it was too often framed as this rogue Israeli company doing terrible things. As I show in the book, it's not that: It's an arm of the state as Lockheed Martin and Raytheon are arms of the US government. Now, Lockheed Martin is a private company. It has a board, sure, and it makes profits or not. But essentially it's an arm of the state. Right? It's used by the government in various foreign policy agendas or goals.

Pegasus is the same. I started looking at that issue by saying that now probably, Israel is number one or two in the world for spyware, and Pegasus and NSO Group in some ways are a smokescreen. Because there are so many other companies that are doing the same thing. So if NSO Group goes bust tomorrow – And it's in a bit of financial trouble at the moment – It's not going to make any difference. There are so many other companies doing the same thing using that whole allure of being able to spy on pretty much anybody, which is why to this day no country wants to regulate this, no country. They're all obsessed with it. That's been the fundamental problem at the moment.

Chris Hedges:  Explain how Pegasus works. We should note that it was also used on Jamal Khashoggi's fiance, Jamal, who I knew being a Saudi journalist who was dismembered in the Saudi embassy and a consulate in Turkey. But explain how it works.

Antony Loewenstein:  Pegasus is a silent tool. It can be installed on your iPhone or Android. It doesn't matter what phone you have. Years ago, a lot of us used to get random text messages. You'd click on the link, you'd forget about it, and you'd move on. That was the way it used to work. So country X or intelligence agency Y would have this tool, let's say, in India, in some other country. They would then send a message to the phone of an activist, human rights worker, or a lawyer, that person would click on a link, their phone would be infected, and they wouldn't know.

There's no way to know yourself without it being forensically checked. These days it doesn't even require a text message. All it requires is someone knowing your number. That's it. And it can access all your information. It can even access your phone and microphone when the phone is off. So it can be used as a weapon against you. As I show in the book, I interviewed huge amounts of people in Mexico, India, and elsewhere. These are people often lawyers who are challenging the state.

In Mexico, I interviewed a woman whose husband was murdered by, almost certainly, Narcos. Then after his death, her phone was being surveilled by the Mexican state. It's never entirely clear even to this day why in her case it was surveilled. But it shows that there is this utter obsession with various intelligence services to get access to all this personal information. It's important to note that one thing that was clear in researching this particular tool is that Pegasus and tools like this have become – And it was said to be in The New York Times a few years ago, and I questioned some of this in the book but two journalists wrote – The most powerful weapon in the world since the invention of the nuclear bomb.

Now, I would question that because nuclear bombs clearly can cause carnage, to put it mildly. Pegasus doesn't directly kill anybody per se, but what it does is it means that privacy is close to dead. At the moment there is this massive proliferation of these tools. Israel of course – This is the key point – Uses Pegasus and other tools as a key foreign policy agenda. I show in the book Netanyahu and Mossad, over the last decade, would go to countries where Israel had no close relations: Rwanda and India when Modi came in, and others: Saudi, UAE. They hold Pegasus up as a diplomatic carrot saying, we will sell you this amazing tool which you can surveil your citizens, whatever you want. But in return, we would like you to vote in a certain way in the UN or buy certain weapons. That's how it works. I show a timeline when Netanyahu goes to Hungary to visit Orban or Modi in India, and 6-12 months later, Pegasus is in use. This is not accidental. This is a key part of Israeli foreign policy now.

Chris Hedges:  Let's talk about the drone program. They pioneered drones. As I remember from the book, India is maybe their largest drone customer. These drones are used against migrants fleeing towards Europe, particularly Greece as well as the US-Mexico border.

Antony Loewenstein:  I have some interesting declassified documents from the '80s where Israel was using drones in its war in Lebanon. When Israel invaded Lebanon in 1982, it was before the digital era, but Israel was using drones. In this amazing document that I have in the book from the CIA, they're shocked and amazed at how incredible – That's their words – These drones are, how effective they are, and they wonder – Back in the '80s – How Israel will be a global pioneer of drones. Fast forward to the last decade or so, and as I show in the book, I have spent a lot of time in Gaza as a reporter in the last 15 or so years there has been a proliferation of testing of drones, particularly around Gaza.

I'm putting aside what's happened since October 7, although it's happening since then too. But in the last 15 years huge amounts of drones are being tested above Gaza, some armed, some not, used in the various Israeli invasions, incursions, or whatever you want to call it in Gaza. Those drones are then called "battle-tested" and then they're sold to huge amounts of nations around the world. The part that shocked me the most was the use by the EU. The EU is buying Israeli drones. They're unarmed, yes. And viewers will be aware that in the last 10 or so years, there's been a huge influx of migrants coming from Africa and the Middle East, after 2015 when the Europeans said they didn't want to repeat that huge influx of people coming. Of course, if you're Ukrainian and white, they'll welcome you in. And I have no problem with Ukrainians being welcomed in. But clearly, if you're Black or Brown it's not going to be the same.

EU created this fortress, and European and Israeli drones are part of that. Frontex, which is the European border force, uses Israeli drones 24/7 in the Mediterranean, circling the Mediterranean, sending back real-time images to Frontex, which is based in Warsaw, Poland of what's happening. The EU has made a clear decision to let people drown; That is obvious. They barely issue rescue boats and they criminalize people who are trying to rescue migrants. Israeli drones are a key part of that infrastructure and eye in the sky and Israeli drones have appeared in India and various other countries. In the last years, Israel remains one of the key drone makers of the world, and increasingly, so is Turkey. Turkey makes a cheaper version of what Israel has been developing and therefore Turkish drones are now also appearing in many nations around the world in many conflicts.

Chris Hedges:  Let's talk about who Israel sells to. It's easier to tick off the list of who they don't sell to. I covered the conflicts in Guatemala and El Salvador in the 1980s. Israel was supplying weapons, including napalm, to the Salvadorans and the Guatemalans. They were one of the most fervent supporters of the apartheid regime in South Africa, they worked with Pinochet's Chile, and the Rwandan genocide was perpetrated with Israeli weapons. They will provide military equipment to the most heinous regimes, including the latest ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh. You mentioned three countries: Iran, North Korea, and I don't know who the other one was.

Antony Loewenstein:  I think I say Syria.

Chris Hedges:  Maybe Syria

Antony Loewenstein:  As far as we're aware.

Chris Hedges:  Right. As far as we're aware.

Antony Loewenstein:  As far as we're aware. It's interesting to note though, that before 1979 and the Islamic Revolution, Israel and Iran were incredibly close. The fact that Iran was run by a dictator did not impede the selling of weapons. They were worried that the rise of the Islamic Revolution would impede their sales, which it did. On the one hand, I shouldn't have been that surprised. It's important to note America remains the world's biggest arms dealer. 45% of the world's arms come from America, so they are leaders by far. Israel is tenth. One of the things that shouldn't have shocked me but did was Myanmar, in the last years, has been committing genocide against its Rohingya population – Many of them have been killed and many have been kicked out into Bangladesh – Even after the UN found that Myanmar was committing genocide, Israel was still selling surveillance and weapons to the Myanmar regime.

As you say, it's hard to list. There are so many of them. It's also worth saying that India – And India is a big focus of the book because India is now the world's biggest country population-wise, the world's biggest self-described democracy. Although I would very much question that. A key ally of the US and certainly my country, Australia, and most Western nations, because it's not China – India is building a Hindu fundamental estate under Modi, a proudly chauvinist nation where Muslims are discriminated against openly. There are pogroms against Muslims. Now, India and Israel didn't have a great relationship before Modi came in. There was a relationship in decades past. Modi comes in 2014 as Prime Minister and there's a love affair between Netanyahu and Modi. There's this image that some viewers may have seen of the two of them stepping onto the beach, getting their feet wet, talking about how much they love each other, who knows, no audio was recorded.

But this relationship is central to why I wrote the book. There is a growing global ethno-nationalist surge, India being the most obvious example, of nations that proudly discriminate against non-majority populations. In India, it's against Hindus, against Muslims. In Israel, it's Jews against anyone who's not Jewish. And I say this as someone Jewish myself, that the whole alliance between Israel and India reminds me very much of Israel and South Africa: Nations that proudly discriminate against non-so-called acceptable populations and are therefore inspiring others. Israel has become the inspiration to so many countries and far-right and rightists around the world, putting aside liberal Zionists for a minute, who over the years have had a love for Israel. I'm talking about India, Hungary, and various other nations, not selling weapons but selling the idea of getting away with it.

That's something I talk about a lot in the book, that the idea that Israel can get away with it, each being occupation, endless colonization, brutalizing Palestinians, selling weapons to God knows who and God knows where, goes to the heart of why Israel is, to me, a danger. Not only to Palestinians, which is bad enough, but a model. Finally, Chris, I say in the book that you often go to far-right rallies – And I go there for work, to be clear. For work purposes – In the US, Australia, and elsewhere, the Israeli flag is a constant presence. It's not unusual and these are not groups that traditionally like Jews. They don't. I quote in the book Richard Spencer, that hideous alt-right leader in America who said a few years ago, I'm a white Zionist. He doesn't like Jewish people but he loves the idea of creating, for him and many like him, a Christian ethno-nationalist state.

You've written a lot of incredibly important work on Christian theocracy in the US and its potential growth and rise in domination. Israel is a touchpoint, as you would well know, for many of these groups. Not all, but many. And it's not because lobbyist groups like Jews; Many of them do not. But they like what Israel is doing to Palestinians to unbelievably dominate and control them. And they're proudly Jewish chauvinists. They're Jewish supremacists. That's what they want to create for Christians in America or Hindus in India. That to me is the danger.

Chris Hedges:  This is from your book according to Netanyahu, Jewish writer Peter Beinarr explained, "The future belonged not to liberalism as Obama defined it – Tolerance, equal rights, and the rule of law – But to authoritarian capitalism: governments that combined aggressive and often racist nationalism with economic and technological might. The future, Netanyahu implied, would produce leaders who resembled not Obama, but him." It fits in with what you said. And unfortunately, I fear – I don't know what you think – That he's right.

Antony Loewenstein:  I fear that too because it's worth saying that Obama wasn't exactly a big believer in –

Chris Hedges:  No, he wasn't.

Antony Loewenstein:  – Democracy and human rights either. Putting that issue aside, I fear that that is correct. And Netanyahu, I suspect, possibly hasn't got a long life left as leader of Israel. It's unclear because so many Israelis, even many who supported him, are understandably angry with him after what happened on October 7. He may not last long as a leader himself but his general analysis, I fear, is correct. Absolutely. There is this sense of country after country after country becoming enamored, not just with technological repression either from Israel or the US or others, but this idea somehow that you can maintain that domination forever.

October 7, as I touch on in the book or imply, although the book came out before October 7 is arguably a delusion. If you believe as a nation that you can repress people through technology forever, it's a lie that will not work. Gaza is a key example of that; Even though Gaza was the key laboratory of Israel, they spent billions and billions in building walls and drones and surveillance. Hamas was able to breach that relatively easily. It took years of planning to do so but I fear the lesson will not be learned.

Gideon Levy, who's a good friend of mine and an amazing Israeli journalist in Israel, has said that he fears that even now the lessons are not being learned by Israel and other leaders. What he means by that is that the lesson that Israel is taking from October 7, and the US took from 9/11, was the wrong one. It was that we need to invade and bomb and dominate even more which is born out of insecurity, not strength. Nonetheless, that's the lesson that Israel is taking, not so much that we need to talk to Palestinians or negotiate with Palestinians. Those Israelis, some are saying that, but it's a tiny minority.

Chris Hedges:  In your book, you talk about Sri Lanka. You can explain what happened. They destroyed the Tamil Tigers and the Israelis were full partners in that project. That fascinated me because I wondered if that was in the playbook for Gaza.

Antony Loewenstein:  A bit of background: 2009 was the end of the Sri Lankan civil war. It'd been going on for decades between the majority of the Sinhalese population and the Tamil Tigers who were a resistance movement for more Tamil rights and a Tamil homeland in Sri Lanka for years. Israel had been supporting the Sri Lankan government in selling planes, fighter jets, and other forms of technology weapons. 2009 happens and as some viewers remember, the Sri Lankan government was able to target the Tamils in a smaller, and smaller, and smaller part of the northern part of Sri Lanka.

Probably 40,000 Tamils were killed. We don't know the exact number. There's never been any real accountability for that. I do look at what's happening in Gaza and I have thought of quite a lot about Sri Lanka since October 7. I don't think there's one united plan, there is to some degree a discussion, although within very narrow bounds in the Israeli political and military establishment. Northern Gaza is obliterated. It's apocalyptic. It's probably very likely there will be a resumption of some fighting in Gaza. I don't know when, but soon. I have, as I'm sure you do, Chris, Palestinian friends in Gaza who are sheltering in refugee camps in their own country and now in the southern part of Gaza, who are struggling. Their homes have been destroyed. They have no connection to Hamas.

These are civilians living in Gaza. If Gaza's infrastructure is completely obliterated that leaves only a handful of options: Permanent tent cities in Gaza, or the dream of many of the Israeli political elite – And also let's be clear, many in the Israeli public based on public opinion polls – Kicking the Palestinians out. Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon. So far, Egypt, despite bringing dictatorship, has not acquiesced to that. They have not opened the borders enough to allow that many Palestinians into the Sinai. That could change. The Egyptian economy is on its knees. Will they accept lots of money and bribes? I very much hope not, but we don't know. I do fear the plan in Gaza is not dissimilar to what Sri Lanka did in the northern part of that country. And the outcome in Sri Lanka is that the war is over but Tamils are still regarded as second-class citizens in their own country.

Chris Hedges:  Let's talk about the Alpha Gun Angels. It's a little sidelight but something disgusting that I didn't know existed until you wrote it and until I read it.

Antony Loewenstein:  Yes. Well, there is a side industry, you could call it, of Israeli and Jewish women. They've often been in the military. They have fetishized or sexualized the Israeli military. You have these groups of women who are scantily clad, often holding guns, and posing in photo shoots as if they're at war in Gaza or somewhere else as an idea and a way to show two things: One, the IDF is female-friendly. You can be an incredibly sexy woman and still be in the IDF and kill Palestinians. That's the implication. Secondly, that Israeli women are cool. That's the message they're trying to send. I don't know if it's particularly effective but that's the message they're trying to send. For years I've been following this story and there's been a real push by the IDF Israeli army to show how gender-friendly they are, how gay-friendly they are, how trans-friendly they are, and how vegan-friendly they are.

We laugh in a way by saying this but I have a big section in the book talking about how this is such a key part of Israeli messaging, so-called Hasbara. I'm not entirely convinced it's massively successful. People can argue that either way but a lot of Israel's social media in the last 10 or so years has focused on this issue. We give vegan meals to soldiers who want them. We are trans-friendly, we are women-friendly, we are gay-friendly. You can wave the rainbow flag. About two weeks after the Israeli invasion of Gaza, there was this Israeli soldier in Gaza – The background was apocalyptic – Holding the rainbow flag. This image went viral. I did a story about it. The message was very clear: We want to liberate Palestinians in Gaza who are gay to be themselves.

Now, the mocking that this got, justifiably, was clear. As if people were saying, right, so you've decimated Gaza and it's apocalyptic, but gee, you can be a gay Palestinian and some may have freedom in Gaza. The cognitive dissidence to believe that. And that ties into these girls you're talking about. These women over the last few years have been traveling around Israel and the world promoting an image of Israel as liberal, but also militaristic. Pro-feminist, but also gun-friendly. That's why a lot of pro-gun groups in the US – Mostly men, let's be honest – Are into the sexualization of Israeli gun-wielding women.

Chris Hedges:  We should note that one of the uses of Pegasus or the spyware was to entrap gay Palestinian men, as you write in the book, and turn them into informants.

Antony Loewenstein:  Indeed. There's a big part of 8200, which is the equivalent of the US's NSA. Its whole base injector is to monitor Palestinians 24/7 across the occupied territory. So one thing they do is to try to find, so-called weak spots: A man who's married to a woman who might be gay, a man who might be having an affair with a woman. In other words, someone who is "doing something unconventional." I use that term loosely. When they get that information, they will then try to turn that person into a spy. We don't know how many Palestinians are collaborators. Some are. It's a tiny minority, but some are. In Gaza too. And it's often, as I say in the book because there's been a siege on Gaza for close to 20 years, enforced by Israel and Egypt to get out of Gaza.

I've spoken to Palestinians who have been offered this but refused it. To get out of Gaza on the Israeli side, they've been told you can leave to go to study overseas or go to a hospital in Israel or elsewhere, you have to spy for us for Israel. And that's how they blackmail people because they gather information from this 24/7 global surveillance network. Interestingly, October 7 shows that not only did the Israeli intelligence fail, was arrogance and hubris, but also the American intelligence failed. It's interesting to note since speaking to the various sources I have – And there's been some decent reporting in the last six weeks – That although the US after 9/11 is spying on Israel a lot... I talk in the book that there are about 3-400 NSA employees in the US whose everyday job is to spy on Israel. That's their job. So they're an ally, but also America doesn't entirely trust them. I'm sure that works both ways, but America was not particularly "helping" Israel to detect so-called terrorist threats.

I want to add this if I could, that I'm the co-editor and co-founder of a group called Declassified Australia, which is a news-gathering organization. We did a story a few weeks ago that showed that Pine Gap, which is a key US intelligence gathering center in my country, Australia, is used as a key intelligence-gathering venue the US used in Iraq and Afghanistan to target so-called terrorists but kill huge amounts of civilians. It's been used by the US since October 7 to give intelligence to Israel in its so-called targeting of Hamas. Now, the reason that's relevant is – Apart from the fact that you have a massive US intelligence base in the center of Australia, which is being expanded in the US expansion in my part of the world to target China. And Australia, sadly is a key ally in that madness – To have a US and Australian spy base in the center of Australia, being used to funnel information to Israel – How they're using that information is not entirely clear – It makes legal culpability very clear.

On the US side and the Australian side as it was when the US was targeting so-called terrorists in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria or elsewhere – I say so-called because huge amounts of civilians were killed – That global US intelligence infrastructure is being used as is the F-35A. F-35A is a weapon that Israel is using over Gaza. The global supply chain involves many countries. At Declassified Australia we also had a story showing that a key part, of when the door is being opened at the bottom of the F-35 to drop weapons on Gaza, that part is made here in Melbourne, Australia. So you have a global supply chain of companies that are directly complicit in what Israel is doing which seems like, if the ICC is listening, hello, there's a lot to be done.

Chris Hedges:  Let's talk about privatization. You talk about the neoliberalism that transformed Israel, which was a socialist state, major state-owned enterprises were sold off, and privatized, especially in the 1990s. Israel has very high-income inequality: The poverty rate is 23% in Israel and 36% for the Arab population. And you write, "Many Palestinians are unaware of how the occupation has been privatized because it makes no difference if a state officer or private individual harasses or humiliates them." You go on to write, "Many checkpoints through which Palestinians are forced to travel to access their schools, workplaces, or Israel – If they are fortunate enough to get one of the few work permits handed out by the Jewish state – Use facial recognition technology and biometric details to document their every move." But these are private companies. So explain that. What's happened to how private for-profit firms are managing the occupation?

Antony Loewenstein:  It's worth saying obviously that Israel was a self-described socialist country, but a socialist country for Jews. It's obvious to say that.

Chris Hedges:  Well, yes. That's right.

Antony Loewenstein:  As some older viewers will be aware, it's amazing to think now that so much of the global left was enamored with Israel for the first 20 years of its existence. Anyway, that was a bit of blindness that we can talk about some other time. But Netanyahu was a key factor in this, that yes, Israel had a quasi-socialist background. In the last 20 or so years, there's been a shift, not just neoliberal policies within Israel itself, but also outsourcing the occupation. And in some ways, it goes along with the massive expansion of settlements. You now have roughly three-quarters of a million Jewish settlers living in occupied territory, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem. A lot of the guards or security officers who are working on both settler checkpoints but also Israeli checkpoints are run by private companies. I lived in East Jerusalem between 2016 and 2020 and have been visiting there for close to 20 years. I've spent a lot of time looking into these issues and it's worth saying that it's been outsourced and the accountability was zero. Even if an Israeli soldier commits an abuse, let alone if a private interest does.

It's important also to say that a lot of these companies are Israeli, but many of them that are doing this are foreign and international. That's relevant because the UN had tried for years to release this list of global companies and Israeli companies that were directly complicit in the occupation, and therefore they should be boycotted. They released a list several years ago, it caused a big scandal in some circles, and about 20 or so of those companies then removed themselves from being involved in managing the occupation, so to speak. But there are still around 100 companies, Israeli and foreign, that are directly involved day-to-day in so-called managing the occupation. That to me is not only illegal and immoral, but also right for a boycott campaign, which I suspect will increase in the coming years after what we've seen the last six weeks.

Chris Hedges:  Can you talk about AnyVision? It's changed its name to Oosto and then Unit 8200.

Antony Loewenstein:  AnyVision, which has changed its name, is a facial recognition company, an Israeli company that was testing this at Israeli checkpoints. So what that means is that when Palestinians want to, say, move around the West Bank, if they want to potentially go from the West Bank into Israel proper, they have to have their details checked, their irises often checked now, and they were gathering all this information. We don't exactly know where that information was going. Still, it was going into Israel in a massive database that they were using to gather personal data on every single Palestinian, in the occupied territories. Those tools are then marketed globally. They have appeared in huge amounts of infrastructure from airports to other places around the world. And when those companies promote it, whether AnyVision uses the term "battle-tested" I'm not sure, but they are saying it's been tested in Palestine “successfully.”

And that does tie into Unit 8200, which is, as I said, Israel's NSA. It is the body that gathers intelligence on Israelis and Palestinians. I should say, that there is a lot of evidence that the occupation is coming home, that a lot of Israeli Jews who for years believed that this was only happening to Palestinians down the road, are increasingly being surveilled themselves. And I'm not talking about since October 7, although particularly since then. There is a move within Israel to criminalize dissent entirely, whether it's by Arabs or Jews.

But Unit 8200 has become this quite infamous funnel of people who have worked in the military for years, developing all these tools and methods to surveil Palestinians, which they then take to the private sector to develop various forms of repression which they can then sell around the world. And by maintaining those close ties, that's how it goes to my point earlier on, the NSO Group was essentially an arm of the state. Many of these companies, these surveillance companies, repressive tools, and biometric companies operating in the occupied territories or Gaza, are then used by Israel as a key selling point to make new friends, so to speak. It's a transactional friendship, a transactional relationship.

And it's why I think the Israeli armed industry is an insurance policy. It's an insurance policy because some countries oppose what Israel is doing. Not many, not enough, but even the countries that publicly do oppose what Israelis are doing, many of them are still buying Israeli repressive technology. Mexico is one example amongst many. Often I think words matter, sure. What a government or prime minister or president says, it's not irrelevant but what matters more is what you are doing, what you are buying, what you are deploying in your own country. So when you have 130, 140 nations in the world that in the last decades bought some form of Israeli defense technology, drones, missiles, spyware, whatever it may be, that's what matters. Israel believes, probably with justification, that those nations, at least for now, are unlikely to turn on Israel while they're so reliant on those tools of repression.

Chris Hedges:  Let's talk about Blue Wolf or the Wolf Pack database.

Antony Loewenstein:  So this is a system that has been developed in the last five or so years that every Israeli soldier operating in the occupied territories has. The aim is to get personal information and data on every single Palestinian man, woman, and child. It's entered into a massive database. That is then used to discriminate against those people potentially. What does that mean practically? Person X wants to go from the West Bank to Israel to work to get medical care. A Palestinian does not know what information has been collected on them, there's no consent.

There's testimony given usually anonymously, by Israeli soldiers, where it's almost like a game. How many Palestinian personal details can we get on our mission tonight when we're serving in the occupied territories? It goes without saying, but there is no transparency in this process. Zero. So Palestinians living in Hebron or Nablus or somewhere else, don't know what information is being gathered, but we do know that it's impacting their freedom of movement from place to place within the West Bank and also potentially further afield into Israel or overseas.

Chris Hedges:  "Israel innovates all sorts of crowd control," you write. Sea of Tears, a drone that dropped tear gas canisters over a broad area, skunk water, the skunk water drone, a form of liquid emitted from a water cannon that left a foul smell on clothes and body for a long time. They were used on the Great March of Return, which was a largely nonviolent protest movement in Gaza where they went up to the border. Many of them, of course, were shot. Talk about some of the forms of crowd control that have been pioneered by Israel, that we have seen in places like Ferguson.

Antony Loewenstein:  Yeah. Well, this is something I talk about in the book, Chris, that there is a sense that Israel is using the West Bank, particularly East Jerusalem and Gaza, as a testing ground. Some of those examples then explain what they are. The Great March of Return, as you said, was Palestinians trying to march for their freedom and for the right to return to Israel where their ancestors used to live. The Sea of Tears was a drone that was dropping tear gas on people. It didn't kill them but it certainly caused huge damage. And literally, while the March of Return was happening and while that drone, the Sea of Tears, was being used – I document this in the book – Other countries were wanting to buy it because it was being tested, so to speak, in real-time.

The connection between the US and Israel is key here. Soon after 9/11, there was a massive attempt by the pro-Israel lobby in the US, the Anti-Defamation League particularly, but other groups as well to have information sharing. So huge amounts of police forces went between Israel and the US and vice versa, training in tools of "people management." They're examples of police officers who have these quotes in the book going to Israel after 9/11, being inspired by what Israel is doing to Palestinians. Let's be clear, as I say in the book, American police don't need Israeli training to be repressive against Blacks and minorities. I'm not arguing that. But what I am saying is that they're getting new tools of repression to the point where quite recently you had major Israeli border security individuals on the US-Mexico border looking at how the US "maintains" its border.

And it's worth saying, you mentioned this before, I didn't fully answer that, that on the US-Mexico border, there is a key part of that infrastructure, which was started by Obama, deepened by Trump, and continued by Biden now, of Israeli surveillance. There are massive Albert surveillance towers all across the US-Mexico border. Elbit is Israel's biggest defense company. The reason the US initially was interested in this technology was because it had been tested and tried in Palestine, and "it works." So you have all these massive surveillance towers. The aim is to both surveil potential migrants crossing the border and importantly Native Americans who live on their ancestral territory. And I have quotes in the book saying they can't live securely in their territory because of these surveillance towers.

So again, it's worth saying that there is this ideological alignment between many in the US who view Israel as almost on the frontline, I hate to use the term, the Wild West of crowd control, crowd management, crushing any resistance to overwhelming force. And they take those examples back to the US and vice versa. It's like a feedback loop. It goes both ways. So as you say in Ferguson there was a lot of evidence that some, particularly, police in Ferguson had gone directly to Israel. That's not necessarily the case. But some of the training that police forces in the US had used, including in Ferguson, had partly come from Israel.

Chris Hedges:  Talk about Frontex and how this Israeli technology is used to break into encrypted messaging apps, especially on refugee mobile phones.

Antony Loewenstein:  Yeah. Frontex is the EU's border "security force." And there was a real trauma inside Frontex, not that I feel sorry for them, but trauma after the 2015 refugee surge, mostly from Syria and elsewhere. Let's not let that happen again. So now you have a situation where huge amounts of migrants are still trying to come from mostly Africa and the Middle East, escaping walls or conflicts or climate crisis disasters. And their phones, which are their smartphones – And are a vital way of knowing how to get there, people have maps on their phones, and personal details, and photos – Are often taken from people at EU border crossings. Information is taken from them. We don't know exactly what information is taken but presumably, I sense that contacts in European nations – In an attempt to try to break up what they would call people smuggling networks, what I would say is humanitarian paths to a better life – And Israeli technology is part of that. It's important to say that those Israeli drones are part of that infrastructure, but also the EU, which is Israel's biggest trading partner.

It's worth saying that. So when you have all these European nations in the last years expressing, now and then, concern about the occupation and concern about settlements. Just this week, one of the heads of the EU said, and I'm paraphrasing, in times of war, it's outrageous that Israel would spend huge amounts of money on building more settlements because Israel has released its latest budget and there are huge amounts of money for settlements. I responded on Twitter, and what are you going to do about it? Because history suggests nothing. They'll do nothing about it. Apart from the fact that I'm a German citizen and an Australian citizen, obviously in Germany, this issue is toxic: Germany is using its historical calamity, and disgusting actions during the Holocaust, including much of my family who were killed in the Holocaust, using that to support Israel's historical absolution to somehow say that to be madly pro-Israel is to atone for our sins during the 12 years of Nazi Germany.

That has a practical impact because Israel is not only selling lots of weapons to Germany, but the Germans are also selling huge amounts of technology to Israel. Since October 7, there's been a tenfold increase in weapons that Germany is selling to Israel, to assist in its horrific war in Gaza. This is what it means. So EU support for Israel. Gideon Levy, the journalist I mentioned before from Haaretz, went to a meeting with Netanyahu several years ago. Netanyahu looks at a map and says the whole world's basically in support of Israel. There are a few nations in Europe, he pointed to Belgium, that gives us a bit of trouble, but overall we're fine. Meaning occasionally the Belgian authorities express concern about settlements, which Israel doesn't care about, but ultimately the EU has decided that they will not challenge Israel, even though EU infrastructure, Chris, is being destroyed in the West Bank constantly. And I wonder how and when that will change because it hasn't changed yet.

Chris Hedges:  I want to close your last chapter. You quoted an Israeli human rights lawyer "Because of surveillance tech, a country can avoid massacring protestors now. Today, we're able to identify and stop surveillance of the next Nelson Mandela before he even knows he's Nelson Mandela." What you describe in the book is the formation of a frightening, dystopian, Orwellian world that extends far beyond Israeli borders. But that, of course, Israel is integral to creating.

Antony Loewenstein:  I certainly don't suggest that Israel is not able to commit massacres. And obviously, we've seen that since October 7. That quote was from Eitay Mack who is a great Israeli human rights lawyer. He spent a lot of time trying to uncover the Israeli arms industry. A lot of his work is in my book. I have quotes from people in Togo, for example, and various other nations across the globe that are often run by US-backed or Israeli-backed dictatorships back in the so-called bad old days, there were repressive regimes that were able to surveil people through various forms. Of course, that's existed forever. But the difference now is that we are so, frankly, overly reliant on phones and the internet that all this technology is monitored 24/7. It doesn't mean all information is always captured. The US issue after 9/11 was they were getting so much information, they couldn't process it. Israel has a similar problem as we saw on October 7, but as you say, Israel to me is becoming, and has been for years, one of the global inspirations for repressive tech. Long before 9/11 and long after 9/11.

The danger of that is clear, that it becomes a model for repression. Israel shows countries how to do it. You can also repress your people if you buy this technology, this spyware, this drone, whatever it may be. The technology is not perfect – They of course don't say that, but that's what I'm saying – But it can create a global, almost architecture of control that is close to unbeatable, and the impact of that at a time where democracy is in decline. You could argue that even self-described democracies aren't democracies anyway, but nations that claim to be democratic are increasingly moving more and more to an Israeli-style model. I'm not talking about an occupation, particularly. I'm talking about language. I was also talking about surveillance. The whole US rhetoric after 9/11, the so-called war on terror, was the Israeli playbook. It wasn't the same but it was remarkably inspired by what Israel had been doing in Lebanon in the '80s and onwards. Hugely similar.

Similar rhetoric about, so-called terrorism, they call it collateral damage but I would call it collateral murder. Something that a mutual friend Julian Assange – A fellow Australian, a great huge hero of mine, I've known Jillian since 2006, right at the beginning of Wiki Leaks – What people like him and many others have been saying for years is this is the threat, the idea of a complete architecture of global surveillance, which is close to unbeatable. Israel is a global leader in that. Alerting people to that is the first step. The next step is how to challenge that. A lot of the global response to October 7, both the attack by Hamas but also the insane, overwhelming, brutal war crimes that Israel is committing in Gaza, is bringing out a civil society action that I have not seen on this issue in my lifetime. I have Palestinian-Israeli friends, and I'm talking about mostly globally, not so much in Palestine, Israel itself, including fellow Jews and many Palestinians. And that to me is the only sliver of hope in what is a very dark time.

Chris Hedges:  Great. That was Antony Loewenstein, author of The Palestine Laboratory: How Israel Exports the Technology of Occupation Around the World. I want to thank The Real News Network and its production team: Cameron Granadino, Adam Coley, David Hebden, and Kayla Rivara. You can find me at chrishedges.substack.com.

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Know Quality Tests which are carried out in the Cement Testing Laboratory 

Cement is a crucial component in the construction industry, and its quality plays a vital role in the strength, durability, and safety of structures. To ensure that cement meets the required specifications and standards, it is essential to conduct quality tests in a cement testing laboratory. JSW Cement, a leading cement manufacturer in India, has a state-of-the-art cement testing laboratory that conducts various quality tests to ensure that its cement products meet the required standards.

Physical Tests 

Physical tests are carried out to determine the physical properties of cement, such as fineness, soundness, and setting time. Fineness refers to the particle size of the cement, which affects its hydration rate and strength development. Soundness refers to the ability of cement to resist volume changes caused by hydration and is determined by the Le Chatelier apparatus test. Setting time refers to the time it takes for the cement to set and harden, and it is determined by the Vicat apparatus test. 

Chemical Tests 

Chemical tests are carried out to determine the chemical composition of cement, which affects its properties such as strength, durability, and workability. The chemical composition of cement is analyzed by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry, which provides a quantitative analysis of the major and minor elements in the cement. 

Compressive Strength Tests 

Compressive strength tests are carried out to determine the strength of cement, which is a crucial factor in ensuring the durability and safety of structures. Compressive strength tests are conducted on cement cubes or cylinders, which are subjected to compressive loads until they fail. The compressive strength of cement is determined by the maximum load the specimen can withstand before failure. 

Setting Time Tests 

Setting time tests are carried out to determine the time it takes for cement to set and harden. The setting time of cement is an essential property that affects its workability and strength development. The setting time of cement is determined by the Vicat apparatus test, which measures the penetration of a needle into the cement paste. 

Soundness Tests 

Soundness tests are carried out to determine the ability of cement to resist volume changes caused by hydration. The soundness of cement is an essential property that affects its durability and resistance to cracking. The soundness of cement is determined by the Le Chatelier apparatus test, which measures the expansion of a cement specimen when subjected to a specified amount of water. 

Specific Gravity Tests 

Specific gravity tests are carried out to determine the density of cement, which affects its workability and strength development. The specific gravity of cement is determined by the pycnometer method, which involves measuring the weight of a known volume of cement and comparing it to the weight of an equal volume of water. 

Fineness Tests 

Fineness tests are carried out to determine the particle size of cement, which affects its hydration rate and strength development. The fineness of cement is determined by the Blaine air permeability method, which measures the amount of air that passes through a known mass of cement at a specified pressure. 

Heat of Hydration Tests 

Heat of hydration tests are carried out to determine the heat released during the hydration process of cement. The heat of hydration of cement is an essential property that affects its strength development and durability. Heat of hydration tests are conducted using a calorimeter, which measures the heat released during the hydration of cement.

In conclusion, the quality of cement is crucial in ensuring the strength, durability, and safety of structures. JSW Cement, a leading cement manufacturer in India, has a state-of-the-art cement testing laboratory that conducts various quality tests to ensure that its cement products meet the required standards.

JSW Cement operates several laboratories that are equipped with advanced testing facilities to ensure the quality of their cement products. Their quality control project, "Concrete Ki Pathshala," has become a trusted destination for players in the construction industry to have their products investigated. The fully equipped laboratories and advanced technology testing equipment make the testing process even more reliable and accurate for their clients. 

Known for its commitment to innovation and customer service. One such initiative undertaken by JSW Cement is the "JSW Cement Care Van," a unique mobile laboratory that travels to various construction sites to provide on-site testing services. 

The JSW Cement Care Van is equipped with advanced testing equipment and is staffed by expert technicians who can conduct various tests to ensure the quality of cement. The van provides various on-site testing services, including compressive strength testing, water permeability testing, and setting time testing, among others. This mobile laboratory helps to ensure that the cement being used in construction meets the required specifications and standards, providing peace of mind to builders and contractors. 

The JSW Cement Care Van is a valuable initiative undertaken by JSW Cement to support the construction industry and ensure the quality of cement used in construction. By providing on-site testing services, technical support, and community outreach, the JSW Cement Care Van helps to promote safe and sustainable construction practices in India. 

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Abrasion resistance requires many structures, including dams, canals, industrial floors, and roads. The surfaces of concrete pavements and floors are highly abrasion-resistant. Concrete strength is strongly dependent on aggregates, so strength has a decisive influence on abrasion resistance. Abrasion resistance of concrete is an important indicator of its serviceability for use as road pavement, industrial floors, dams, etc.

This standard test determines the relative resistance of concrete surfaces by measuring the abrasion loss of a specimen exposed to an abrasive charge. In addition to concrete pavements, industrial floors, railway platforms, dockyards, and walkways, this test method measures the abrasion caused by physical impacts.

Workflow of the Test

The concrete cubes impinge with an abrasive charge. The concrete abrasion loss refers to the loss of mass of the cubes that occurs as the concrete surface of the cubes abrades.

Apparatus for the Test

Scale.

Conical Galvanized Iron Hopper.

Pneumatic Sand Blasting Cabinet.

Conditions of Test operating

During operation, there is a pressure of 0.14 N/mm2 for the abrasive charge. By using air pressure and sand to rub concrete surfaces, you can create an abrasive charge. Each impingement shall require 4000 grams of charge. An abrasion loss defines as the mass lost due to two impressions on the same face of a concrete cube.

Test Specimen?s Preparation

It's necessary to oven-dry concrete cube specimens measuring 10 cm cubes for 24 hours at 50?C after they have been cured for 28 days. After emery paper has rubbed over the specimen's surface, the aggregate grains should expose as well as cement laitance.

Read more

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Compressive Strength of Concrete - Cube Test Result 7, 14, 28 Days

Compressive Strength of Concrete?

Compressive strength of Concrete can be defined as the ability of a material or structure to carry the loads on it without any crack or deflection. material under compressive load tends to reduce the size, while in tension, size elongates. The compressive strength of concrete can be calculated by dividing the load applied to the concrete cube at the point of failure by the cross-section area of the cube (15x15x15 cm) on which the load was applied. The concrete compressive strength for normal construction work varies from 15 MPa (2200 psi) to 30 MPa (4400 psi) and more in commercial and industrial structures. The strength of concrete depends on factors such as the water-cement ratio, the strength of cement use, the quality of concrete materials, quality control during the production of concrete, etc. A compressive strength test of concrete is performed to check the compressive strength of concrete. There are various standard codes that recommend concrete cylinder or concrete cube as the standard specimen for the test. The American Society for Testing Materials of construction ASTM C39/C39M provides Standard Test Method for the Compressive Strength of cube and Cylindrical Concrete Specimens. Read More: All Cement Tests and Their Procedure

Concrete cube and concrete cylinder

Compressive Strength of Concrete Formula

The following is the compressive strength of the concrete formula, Compressive Strength = Load at failure / Cross-sectional Area of element

IS Code For Concrete Cube Test

Cube Test of Concrete as per IS Code IS 516 (1959): Method of Tests for Strength of Concrete  and IS 456 2000: Concrete Strength Acceptance Criteria

Cube Test of Concrete

For the cube test of concrete two types of specimens either cubes of 15cm X 15cm X 15cm or 10cm X 10cm x 10cm. It's depending upon the size of the aggregate used for concrete making. For most concrete works cubical molds of size, 15cm x 15cm x 15cm are commonly used.

Concrete Cube Mould This concrete is filled in the mould and tempered properly so as to minimize any air voids available in concrete. After 24 hours these moulds are opened and test specimens are soaked in water for curing. The upper surface of these specimens should be made even and smooth. This is done by spreading cement paste on the whole area of the specimen. These cubes are tested by a compression testing machine after 7 days of curing or 28 days of curing. The Load on the cube should be applied gradually at the rate of 140 kg/cm2 per minute till the specimen fails. Load at the failure of a cube divided by the area of the specimen gives the compressive strength of concrete. Apparatus for Concrete Cube Test - Standard Compression testing machine - Cube mould of standard size 15 cm x 15 cm x 15 cm

Standard compression Testing Machine Preparation of Concrete Cube Specimen The proportion and material for making these test specimens should be taken from the same concrete used in the field. 1. Specimen Minimum 9 cubes of 15 cm size Max. M15 or above 2. Mixing of Concrete for Cube Test Mix the concrete can be done by hand or in a laboratory batch mixer 3. Hand Mixing Mix the coarse aggregate, cement, and fine aggregate on a water platform until the mixture is thoroughly blended and is of uniform color. After that add water and mix it until the concrete appears to be homogeneous and of the desired consistency. 4. Pouring Concrete In Cubes Clean the mounds of concrete and apply oil. Fill the concrete in the molds in 3 layers. Compact each layer of mix with not less than 35 strokes per layer using a tamping rod (steel rod 16mm diameter and 60cm long, bullet-pointed at the lower end) The top level of the concrete cube and smoothen it with a trowel. 5. Curing of Cubes

Curing of Concrete Cube The cube test specimens are stored in a moist air atmosphere for 24 hours and after this period the specimens are given marking and removed from the molds and kept submerged in freshwater until taken out for testing. 6. Precautions for Tests The water used for curing should be tested every 7 days and the temperature of the water must be at 27+-20 C. Concrete Cube Test Procedure - Remove the concrete cube from the water after the specified curing time and clear out excess water from the surface. - Measure the dimension of the specimen to the nearest 2mm. - Clean the test surface of the testing machine. - Place the cube sample in the machine in such a manner that the load shall be applied to the opposite sides of the cube cast. - Place the specimen centrally on the base plate of the machine. - Rotate the machine's movable portion gently by hand so that it touches the top surface of the specimen. - Apply the load gradually to the cube without shock and continuously at the rate of 140 kg/cm2/minute till the specimen fails. - Record the breaking load and note any unusual features in the type of failure. Calculations of Compressive Strength Check the Compressive Strength of Concrete Size of the concrete cube = 15 cm x 15 cm x 15 cm Area of the cube sample =225 cm2 (22500 mm2) The same calculation should be done for 28 days of compressive strength The maximum load applied or load at failure of cube = 400 KN (400x1000 N) Compressive strength = (Load in N/ Area in mm2)=400x1000/22500 N/mm2 = 17.77 N/mm2 Percentage of Strength Gain by Cubes In Days The following table shows the percentage gain of compressive strength of concrete at 7 days, 14 days, and 28 days Days% Gain Strength1 Day16 %3 Day30 %7 Day65 Day90 Day99 %Concrete compressive strength gain after 3, 7, 14, and 28 days

Compressive Strength of Different Grades of Concrete

The following table shows the compressive strength of various concrete grades at different ages. Grade of Concrete 1 Day (16%) 3 Day (30%) 7 Day (65%)14 Day (90%) 28 Day (28%) M 152.44.509.7513.5014.85 M 203.206.0013.0018.0019.80 M 254.007.5016.2522.5024.75 M 304.809.0019.5027.0029.70 M 355.6010.5022.7531.5034.65 M 406.4012.002636.0039.60 M 457.2013.5029.2540.5044.50

FAQs

How to Check Compressive Strength of ConcreteA concrete Cube Test is performed to know the Characteristics and compressive Strength of concrete. Test for compressive strength on concrete is can be performed by either using a cube or cylinder. According to the standards, there are various codes that are recommended as the standard specimen for the test.What is the compressive strength test of concrete?The Compressive strength of concrete is its ability to resist failure in the form of cracks and the fissure when a specific amount of load is acted upon it. Hence higher the value of Compressive Strength higher the value of concrete to resist failure due to acting load.How do you measure the strength of concrete?Various tests are performed to know the strength of concrete. The strength of concrete can also be correlated by knowing its toughness value, durability, abrasion value, shear value, etc. For example, Cube Test is performed to know the Compressive strength of concrete by applying pressure on concrete in a UTM machine.What is the minimum compressive strength of concrete?Minimum Compressive Strength of Concrete: 17300 KN/m2 As per the standards, the worldwide minimum compressive strength of concrete varies with its grade as well as the nature of construction. However, in a general sense minimum, Compressive Strength required is 17300KN/m2.Cube TestThe compressive strength of concrete can be defined as the ability of a material or structure to carry the loads on it without any crack or deflection. A material under compressive load tends to reduce its size, while in tension, size elongates. It is also known as the Cube test of Concrete in the field.Compressive Strength of Concrete at 7 DaysConcrete has the ability to gain 16 percent strength of its total strength in one day, 40 percent in 3 days, 65% in 7 days, 90% in 14 days, and around 99% strength in 28 days. So, for the M20 grade of concrete compressive strength of concrete during the day will be 13 N/mm2.After 28 days compressive strength of concrete in psi?The compressive strength of concrete requires 4000 to 5000 psi at 28 days. You Might Also Like: - Compaction Factor Test of Concrete, Result & Calculations - Tensile Strength of Concrete – Test & result - Rebound Hammer Test & Concrete Strength Calculation - Concrete Cube Fails in Test After 28 days Read the full article

[sirtbhopal]

undefined

Experiential Learning | Testing of cement samples by Prof. Arvind Singh Gaur | SIRT

Testing of cement is very much essential hence the consistency test, initial and final setting time test will be explained using Vicat Apparatus.

[mohdasik7]

ALLPHA LAB INSTRUMENTS

Allpha is a India company that manufactures an extensive range of Laboratory Equipment and Analytical instruments.We aim to enhance research and development across various fields of Life Sciences and allow access to the best and cost-effective equipment. our products are tested and approved by experts from R&D, Quality Assurance, and Quality Control and are at par with European Standards including ISO and CE certifications

Having built a strong network of professionals over the years, we now sell instruments and consumables. Their reputed clients and manufacturers appreciate the time and money they spend on them, which is why they stay up-to-date with the latest technology. Over the past years, Allpha has worked with industry leaders to design solutions for production and research needs across the entire constant temperature / environment spectrum.The company has a wide range of laboratory equipment used in research, light industry, medical and healthcare, and education Laboratory equipment from our company is manufactured in our manufacturing facilities located throughout India and worldwide. Customized equipment can also be manufactured to fit your specific requirements.All of their raw materials are high-quality ones sourced from reliable sources, which allows them to be qualitative and long-lasting. Customized and developed based on customer specifications, these products are made to fit their needs. Every product is carefully scrutinized to guarantee that the best products can be supplied to the customers.

Allpha is founded By a qualified engineer with experience in Scientific Instrumentation industry in India from 2018 lab instruments in chennai. Allpha Incorporated in 2018, an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer of high quality and innovative laboratory and scientific equipment for the global market. We have expertise in innovative product manufacturing that adds value to the customer’s portfolio.High-quality, durable, efficient equipment is widely demanded and appreciated for its high performance, reliability, durability, and efficiency. They keep themselves informed about new developments related to their products’ design and construction through continuous research and development.

The range of products include

-40°C Freezer

-86°C ULT Freezer

CO2 Incubator

CO2 Incubator Air Jacketed

CO2 Incubator Water Jacketed

Shaking Incubator

Water Bath

Cloud And Pour Point Apparatus

Lyophilizer / Freeze Dryer

Laminar Air Flow

Horizontal Laminar Air Flow

Vertical Laminar Air Flow

Fume Hood

PCR Cabinet

Biological Safety Cabinet

Class I Biosafety Cabinet

Class II Biosafety Cabinet

Class III Biosafety Cabinet

Lab Furntures

Allpha markets a complete line of products under Allpha brand which complement our OEM manufacturing capacities. Allpha’s reputation has been built on innovation, high quality and long term partnering. Allpha focuses to provide economical equipments to Research institutions, Univertities & colleges & manufacturers in industries such as electronics, Pharmaceutical Research, Cement, Steel etc. allpha has established its manufacturing facility at Chennai. The infrastructure is facilitated with sophisticated fabrication, Electrical & Refrigeration department with expert engineering team, well equipped and trained Quality control department.

[heicoin]

How Can Cement Be Tested Out for the Best Quality?

The Foundation of any kind of building will depend on the raw materials used by the people and it will comprise the basic structure of the building. One such inseparable part of the construction is the cement and it will be finding out the impeccable application in different kinds of construction activities and works. It will not say whether the individuals are constructing a building or a bridge but cement is something that will be making the foundation very much sturdy as well as strong. Hence, undertaking the implementation of cement soundness test apparatus is very much important for the organisations to ensure that everything will be undertaken very professionally and effectively.

Following are some of the most important testing procedures and instruments to be carried out on the segment to check out the quality very professionally:

Implementation of the cement fineness test apparatus is very much important in this particular case so that everybody will be having a clear idea about the initial sample testing of the overall picture of the cement quality. In this particular system, the people will be collecting the semen sample from the packaging cement bags and will be utilising different kinds of equipment to be undertaken in the whole process.

Depending on the utilisation of cement tensile testing machine is another very important thing to be taken into consideration by the organisations throughout the process so that everybody will be able to lead towards a better construction procedure without any kind of doubt. Determining the particle nature of the cement is very important in this particular case so that overall goals are very easily achieved without any kind of doubt.

It is very much vital for the organisations to have a clear idea about the basic implementation of the cement consistency test apparatus so that there is no chance of any kind of doubt and everybody will be on the right track of implementing the things very professionally. In this particular case, the accurate surface area of the same particles have to be checked out so that there is no chance of any kind of hassle throughout the process.

The instruments will be perfectly working on the specific principle where the dry air with constant velocity will be dealing with the things and airflow has to be checked out in the whole process to enjoy accurate procedures.

The utilisation of the concrete testing equipment for sale like the Vicat instrument is a good idea because in this particular case the consistency of the cement paste has to be checked out very easily. Ultimately it will find perfect use throughout the whole process so that there is no chance of any kind of doubt element in the whole process.

Hence, testing cement for different kinds of components like moisture-holding capacity and air permeability is very much important so that there is no chance of any kind of doubt and everybody will be able to indulge in the better quality and durable building foundations.

[heicodynamics]

As the construction industry grows, you must deliver quality. Many projects fail on construction sites due to poor results and improper field testing. Stress test is one of the basic and essential tests. This test is the backbone of all civil engineering tests relating to concrete and should be carried out with caution. Cement testing equipment is required on almost all projects because it provides an easy way to determine the quality and type of concrete. Many of them make these simple mistakes, such as various exemptions from various concrete standards, improper procedures for filling and compacting concrete, and improper concrete testing methods.

Concrete, a mixture consisting of water, aggregate, cement and possibly additives, is an essential material in the construction industry and is used in various residential, industrial, commercial and marine applications. Cement test apparatus provides structural rigidity to structures, so the quality of concrete is essential for structures to be safe and serve their intended purpose.

Builder:

The cement’s chemical composition and fineness can significantly influence the aggregate ratio of the concrete. The initial strength of the cement is attributed to the higher content of tricalcium silicate than that of dicalcium silicate. Similarly, finely ground cement has higher early strength than coarsely ground cement of similar chemical composition. Initial strength may vary due to the above factors, but the final strength after 28 days may be equal.

The meaning of the test

Precast and cured concrete on-site testing is essential to ensure that concrete structures meet relevant specifications and standards. Cement testing machine manufacturers provide a wide range of concrete sampling and testing equipment to meet this requirement under international laboratory and field testing standards.

Because of its high compressive and low tensile strength, concrete is often reinforced with steel. But reinforced concrete is used in a variety of applications. Lightweight, low-strength concrete has excellent thermal properties. It is suitable for filling basement floors and overhangs. In contrast, high-strength concrete is generally used for large-scale applications such as columns and bridge beams in basements of large concrete buildings.

Concrete test stands are designed to test these different types of concrete to ensure they meet the specific requirements of each project.

How is concrete tested?

Fresh concrete is field and laboratory-tested using stagnation cone tests and air entrainment meters to check water-cement ratio, air content and workability. Measurements of pressure, density, drying, shrinkage and moisture transfer may also be required. Concrete samples are taken and prepared as cubes, cylinders or beams to demonstrate compliance with the specifications.

Testing fresh and hardened concrete

The test bench includes a series of treatment tanks with submersible pumps, submersible heater/thermostat units, independent control panels and bottom racks designed to maintain a standard temperature of 20°C.

[vincivilworld]

Soundness test on Cement – Procedure and Calculation

Soundness test on Cement – Procedure and Calculation

The soundness of the cement is the ability to resist volume changes after hardening. The soundness test on cement is significant because,using unsound cement leads to cracks and hamper the structural quality. A sound cement is one of the key materials used in construction. Therefore it is essential to determine its quality before using it in construction.  Cement tests – Categories Cement is…

[iso-updates]

CE Marking Process for Cement-Related Products: A Comprehensive Guide

CE marking is a fundamental marker for products sold in the European Financial Region (EEA), displaying their conformity with fundamental well-being and security guidelines. While CE marking isn't a necessity for cement itself, it very well might be compulsory for specific cement-related products. 

In this article, we will dive into the CE Marking for Cement process, clarifying the means associated with acquiring this confirmation, including testing, documentation, and the statement of conformity.

CE Marking: A Concise Outline

The CE marking, otherwise called the CE mark, is a symbol of similarity, implying that a product follows explicit European Association (EU) standards and norms. Its essential goal is to guarantee the well-being, and natural assurance of purchasers and clients of the product. 

Even though cement products like Qatar cement are not exposed to CE marking, different cement-related products like substantial blocks, cement blenders, and cement-based glues might require this accreditation.

CE Marking Process for Cement-Related Products

Getting CE Marking Certification for cement-related products is a thorough and organized process including a few urgent advances, including testing, documentation, and the statement of conformity.

Distinguishing Applicable Directives

The most vital phase in the CE marking process is recognizing the pertinent EU mandates for the product being referred to. The product type could be dependent upon at least one directive, like the Apparatus Order, Development Products Guideline, or Low Voltage Mandate. Understanding the applicable orders is critical, as they decide the fundamental necessities and norms that should be met.

Product Classification

In the wake of deciding the relevant orders, the product should be grouped by its sort and expected use. This characterization characterizes which conformity evaluation strategy is important. The product classification, its intricacy, and potential dangers related to it take advantage to leverage the order interaction.

Conformity Assessment

The third step includes leading a similarity evaluation to confirm that the product consents to the fundamental prerequisites of the pertinent orders. Contingent upon the product's arrangement, one of the accompanying appraisal strategies is applied:

Interior Creation Control (Module A): Relevant to products with low dangers and straightforward plans, where the maker assumes complete ownership for quality control.

EC Type Assessment (Module B): Pertinent to products with medium dangers, requiring outsider evaluation and endorsement of the product's plan and determinations.

Production Quality Confirmation (Module D): Reasonable for products with a steady plan and quality, zeroing in on quality control in the assembling system.

Full Quality Confirmation (Module H): Material to products with high dangers and intricacy, including constant quality control of the product's plan and assembling process.

Testing and Documentation

Testing is an urgent piece of the CE Marking Process. The product should go through thorough testing to guarantee it satisfies the important standards and orders. The particular tests differ in light of the product type, however by and large cover viewpoints like security, execution, and natural effect.

Documentation is similarly significant in Qatar. Manufacturers are expected to gather a specialized document that remembers data for product configuration, testing results, risk evaluations, and directions for use. This CE Marking for Cement documentation shows compliance with the relevant orders.

Notified Body Contribution

In specific cases, a Notified Body might be involved. A Notified Body is a free outsider association assigned by an EU part state to survey specific products' conformity. For products subject to modules B and H, the involvement of this body is obligatory. The body conducts assessments and reviews to confirm the product's compliance with EU prerequisites.

Declaration of Conformity

When the product effectively passes the conformity evaluation and testing, the producer gives a CE Mark Declaration of Conformity. This archive expresses that the product consents to the significant EU orders and norms. The Statement of Conformity should be endorsed by the maker or an approved delegate and should incorporate data about the product, the norms met, and references to the directives.

Affixing the CE Mark

After getting the Declaration of Conformity, the CE mark can be joined to the product. The CE mark ought to be apparent, clear, and permanent. It should likewise incorporate the recognizable proof number of the Notified Body, assuming one was involved. The CE mark connotes that the product is consistent with EU prerequisites and can be unreservedly sold and utilized inside the EEA.

Holding Technical Documentation

Makers should retain the technical documentation and a duplicate of the Declaration of Conformity for no less than 10 years following the ongoing product position available. This documentation should be promptly accessible for review by important specialists.

Conclusion

Getting CE Marking for Cement products is a thorough and organized process, including cautious adherence to the pertinent EU mandates, grouping, conformity evaluation, testing, documentation, and issuing a Declaration of Conformity. 

It is significant for manufacturers and shippers to explore this cycle fastidiously to guarantee their products meet the security and quality standards expected to be purchased in the European Economic Area (EEA). The CE mark gives admittance to a critical market as well as highlights a guarantee of buyer security and product quality. 

Understanding and following the CE mark process is fundamental for any business associated with the creation or circulation of cement-related products inside the EEA.

[civillabequipmentmanufacturer]

We are one of leading #manufaturer of #compaction #factor #test #apparatus for testing of #concrete & #cement. Visit our website: https://civillabequipmentmanufacturer.com/compaction-factor-apparatus-manufacturers/ https://www.instagram.com/p/CEkEE0zHWIc/?igshid=19wqw2n76a2xx

[todoinke]

Know Quality Tests which are carried out in the Cement Testing Laboratory

Cement is a crucial component in the construction industry, and its quality plays a vital role in the strength, durability, and safety of structures. To ensure that cement meets the required specifications and standards, it is essential to conduct quality tests in a cement testing laboratory. JSW Cement, a leading cement manufacturer in India, has a state-of-the-art cement testing laboratory that conducts various quality tests to ensure that its cement products meet the required standards.

 1.Physical Tests 

Physical tests are carried out to determine the physical properties of cement, such as fineness, soundness, and setting time. Fineness refers to the particle size of the cement, which affects its hydration rate and strength development. Soundness refers to the ability of cement to resist volume changes caused by hydration and is determined by the Le Chatelier apparatus test. Setting time refers to the time it takes for the cement to set and harden, and it is determined by the Vicat apparatus test. 

 2. Chemical Tests 

Chemical tests are carried out to determine the chemical composition of cement, which affects its properties such as strength, durability, and workability. The chemical composition of cement is analyzed by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry, which provides a quantitative analysis of the major and minor elements in the cement. 

 3. Compressive Strength Tests 

Compressive strength tests are carried out to determine the strength of cement, which is a crucial factor in ensuring the durability and safety of structures. Compressive strength tests are conducted on cement cubes or cylinders, which are subjected to compressive loads until they fail. The compressive strength of cement is determined by the maximum load the specimen can withstand before failure. 

 4. Setting Time Tests 

Setting time tests are carried out to determine the time it takes for cement to set and harden. The setting time of cement is an essential property that affects its workability and strength development. The setting time of cement is determined by the Vicat apparatus test, which measures the penetration of a needle into the cement paste. 

 5. Soundness Tests 

Soundness tests are carried out to determine the ability of cement to resist volume changes caused by hydration. The soundness of cement is an essential property that affects its durability and resistance to cracking. The soundness of cement is determined by the Le Chatelier apparatus test, which measures the expansion of a cement specimen when subjected to a specified amount of water. 

 6. Specific Gravity Tests 

Specific gravity tests are carried out to determine the density of cement, which affects its workability and strength development. The specific gravity of cement is determined by the pycnometer method, which involves measuring the weight of a known volume of cement and comparing it to the weight of an equal volume of water. 

 7. Fineness Tests 

Fineness tests are carried out to determine the particle size of cement, which affects its hydration rate and strength development. The fineness of cement is determined by the Blaine air permeability method, which measures the amount of air that passes through a known mass of cement at a specified pressure. 

 8. Heat of Hydration Tests 

Heat of hydration tests are carried out to determine the heat released during the hydration process of cement. The heat of hydration of cement is an essential property that affects its strength development and durability. Heat of hydration tests are conducted using a calorimeter, which measures the heat released during the hydration of cement.

 In conclusion, the quality of cement is crucial in ensuring the strength, durability, and safety of structures. JSW Cement, a leading cement manufacturer in India, has a state-of-the-art cement testing laboratory that conducts various quality tests to ensure that its cement products meet the required standards.

 JSW Cement operates several laboratories that are equipped with advanced testing facilities to ensure the quality of their cement products. Their quality control project, "Concrete Ki Pathshala," has become a trusted destination for players in the construction industry to have their products investigated. The fully equipped laboratories and advanced technology testing equipment make the testing process even more reliable and accurate for their clients. 

Known for its commitment to innovation and customer service. One such initiative undertaken by JSW Cement is the "JSW Cement Care Van," a unique mobile laboratory that travels to various construction sites to provide on-site testing services. 

 The JSW Cement Care Van is equipped with advanced testing equipment and is staffed by expert technicians who can conduct various tests to ensure the quality of cement. The van provides various on-site testing services, including compressive strength testing, water permeability testing, and setting time testing, among others. This mobile laboratory helps to ensure that the cement being used in construction meets the required specifications and standards, providing peace of mind to builders and contractors. 

The JSW Cement Care Van is a valuable initiative undertaken by JSW Cement to support the construction industry and ensure the quality of cement used in construction. By providing on-site testing services, technical support, and community outreach, the JSW Cement Care Van helps to promote safe and sustainable construction practices in India. 

[readerficsbyhyaku]

Crossed orbits, may we meet (DJSS x Reader) Part 1

summary

First impressions are the most important, and they tend to stick for a while.

You don't like DJ Subatomic Supernova, your boss. It would even be fair to say you hate his guts. But something happens down the line that makes you... reconsider.

author’s note

Now that i've gotten all the smut out of my system for a bit, welcome to SLOW BURN.

Art by me

It was only your first week of working at the Planetarium, and you hated him. His superior attitude, the way he deemed you stupid and inferior to him, his annoying demands… You were patient, but this guy was rubbing you the wrong way.

And you weren’t even doing a job that required constant interaction with him. You were a technician for his set, so most of the time you just fixed whatever broke, because the Planetarium was old and had been put together as a night club a bit hastily. But DJ Subatomic Supernova – what a pompous name, you thought – also had very specific demands concerning the way his stage was set, and those were the times you had to bear with him.

Rearranging the number of planets for his shows was a thing, but when he asked you again to change the axis of one of them because, quote : “It isn’t accurate to the real one, that’s why”, you were getting a bit pissed. You were here to make sure the place ran smoothly without any of the stage apparatus falling down and flattening someone like a pancake, not babysitting a big… manchild !

You didn’t like to stand out, but your irritation was getting the best of you.

On the first days, you tested the waters by asking your coworkers if your boss was always like this.

“Yeah, you’ll get used to it. Or you could always quit, that has happened too.”

“I kinda need to eat though” you said sheepishly.

“I can understand that” they laughed, and went back to work.

As time went by, DJ Subatomic Supernova began to really get under your skin, and more often than not you started voicing your discontent by mimicking his lines with a high-pitched voice.

By the end of the month, you were openly stating that you hated his guts, sometimes even within his ear range. A part of you wanted him to know how much he annoyed you, so that maybe, maybe he would change a bit.

But of course, he didn’t.

So each day you went to work, angrier and angrier, your coworkers gradually receding from you as you revealed your true colors. Also, you had a belt full of heavy tools and they didn’t want you to use those on any of them as an outlet for your rage.

Your opinion of DJ Subatomic Supernova was now pretty much cemented into “unredeemable asshole” when something happened that made you reconsider a bit.

It was after two rockers had crashed the show and booted your boss out of his place.

The crew didn’t know what to do. The scene was full of debris and most of the equipment was now unusable, even the planets you had so painstakingly adjusted were shattered to bits. Huge gashes marred the screens on the walls, and a chunk of the roof was gone. And more importantly, the district wasn’t NSR’s anymore.

So you waited, and waited as DJ Subatomic Supernova’s assistant tried to contact him, before telling you to stay put until she found him.

He was in a pitiful state when she brought him back. Clothes torn and tattered, his orb cracked, something black and gooey dripping from it onto his chest. He didn’t have the bravado and stature he had before, even if it was discrete. His shoulders drooped slightly, he didn’t puff out his chest as much, if you had to put it in words, he was dimmer. A star that had lost his light.

And for once, you stopped considering him like an annoyance, but like a person. A person that, despite his attitude, had hopes, dreams, aspirations, and could be broken. And truly, seeing him like this made your heart ache a bit.

Once he was back on stage, even though Bunk Bed Junction fans were booing him, he took an instant to look around. He took in the stage, the ceiling, the screens… and the people. You saw him stare at each and every person, and sometimes bending towards his assistant, asking them for something. Then, he straightened a bit and cleared his throat.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I am truly sorry to announce that our nightly occurrence ends today. I am glad to see that none of you were harmed during the battle that took place earlier, and I would like to apologize for putting you all in danger.”

You shared a look with your colleagues.

You were up in the stage lights when the battle had started, so you couldn’t get down. Since you were situated so high, you were perhaps the one that saw the altercation the best. And truly, when DJ Subatomic Supernova’s orb had cracked and the black hole had appeared… You were glad your harness was securely attached to the sturdy steel frame holding the projectors. It was a miracle nobody got caught up in that.

“I would also like to thank all of you for your work here at the Planetarium, and would like to assure you I appreciated everyone’s company during this ballad through space. I hope we can meet again in the future, but for now it is farewell, my friends.”

You could only stare a bit dumbfounded when you heard him pronounce those words. The arrogant DJ Subatomic Supernova, showing respect and thankfulness ?? But at the same time, it sounded honest. It sounded heartfelt, and it stung even more. Despite all the jests, the degrading names… you felt like a door had opened from him to you, a path to understanding, unhindered by social etiquette.

And that made you reflect on your own attitude. Maybe you took everything a bit too literally. Maybe he was just acting as his persona, and didn’t mean the nicknames he gave you and all the others. While you thought that his defeat wouldn’t affect you that much, you found yourself being truly, sincerely sad for him. Empathetic. Because you had misjudged him all this time and been an awful person behind his back. Maybe you were the pompous asshole after all.

You were lost in thought when one of your colleagues, an older guy that was appreciated by everyone, gently tapped your back.

“C’mon, it’s time to go.”

You raised your head, casting one last look towards your boss, and shuffled away with the rest of the crew.

That night, it rained on the Cast Tech district. Big, heavy drops that raced down the windows and drenched everything in grey and cold.

You thought about the open roof of the club and the damage that would cause, even though it should be none of your problem now.

You thought about your coworkers, and how they would react, even though you wouldn’t see them the next day.

You thought about how your heart felt like it was torn open like the Planetarium and emotions were gushing through, that you wanted it or not.

You couldn’t stop thinking about DJ Subatomic Supernova.