Portland Cement Loss on Ignition

Loss on ignition is calculated by heating up a cement sample to 900 – 1000°C (1650 – 1830°F) until a constant weight is obtained. The weight loss of the sample due to heating is then determined. A high loss on ignition can indicate prehydration and carbonation, which may be caused by improper and prolonged storage or adulteration during transport or transfer (PCA, 1988[1]).

Standard Test Methods

  • AASHTO T 105 and ASTM C 114: Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic Cement



Footnotes    (↵ returns to text)
  1. Portland Cement Association (PCA). (1988). Design and Control of Concrete Mixtures. Portland Cement Association. Skokie, IL.