If a slab on ground will not be exposed to sulfates, which cement type is most likely used?

If a slab on ground will not be exposed to sulfates, which cement type is most likely used?

• A. Type II
• B. Type I
• C. Type III
• D. Type IV

Answer: (B)

When there’s no sulfate exposure, you don’t need a cement with special sulfate resistance. Standard Portland cement, Type I, is used because it provides normal strength and setting characteristics without extra protection against sulfates. Type II adds some sulfate resistance (and lower heat of hydration), which is useful if soil or water has sulfates or you’re trying to limit heat, but that isn’t necessary here. Type III focuses on high early strength, which isn’t needed for a typical slab, and Type IV is a low-heat option for very large pours, not a sulfate issue. So the most appropriate choice is standard Portland cement.

When there’s no sulfate exposure, you don’t need a cement with special sulfate resistance. Standard Portland cement, Type I, is used because it provides normal strength and setting characteristics without extra protection against sulfates. Type II adds some sulfate resistance (and lower heat of hydration), which is useful if soil or water has sulfates or you’re trying to limit heat, but that isn’t necessary here. Type III focuses on high early strength, which isn’t needed for a typical slab, and Type IV is a low-heat option for very large pours, not a sulfate issue. So the most appropriate choice is standard Portland cement.