The difference between setting and hardening in cement?

Answer 1

Setting

• Setting begins to occur after the concrete is mixed and even before pouring. The cement in the concrete begins to stiffen after mixed with water. The concrete is beginning to change from liquid form to solid form. During the setting process, the concrete does gain strength, which is the beginning of the hardening process. When the water ingredient is added to the concrete mix, the concrete is still pliable and flexible, sort of a paste. There is two stages of setting: initial and final setting. Initial setting is when the concrete loses it flexibility and begins to harden. Final setting is when the concrete can sustain some load, but still has some moisture within the mixture.

Hardening

• Hardening of the concrete is the stage when the mixture gains strength. The cement ingredient begins to attach itself to the aggregate as the water dries off the mixture. The hydration of water is what starts the hardening process. It generally takes five to seven days for the concrete to complete the hardening process. The easiest way to increase the strength of concrete is to add cement to the mixture. The more water used in the mixture, the weaker the concrete and it will also delay the hardening process. Once the concrete has hydrated all the water from the mixture, the hardening process is complete and the concrete is as strong as it will get.