Initial and final setting time

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Accepted Answer

Initial and final setting time are important properties of cement that determine its workability and strength.

Initial setting time is the time taken for the cement paste to harden sufficiently to resist certain specified pressure.
Final setting time is the time taken for the cement paste to harden completely and attain its full strength.
Both setting times are influenced by factors like cement composition, water-cement ratio, temperature, and admixtures.
The initial setting time of cement is typically around 30 minutes, while the final setting time can range from a few hours to several days.
Controlling the setting time is crucial in construction to ensure proper handling, placing, and curing of cement-based materials.

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