Which type of Portland cement is used when early strength is expected?

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

Answer: (A)

When you need concrete to gain strength quickly, you choose cement designed for rapid early hydration. Type III Portland cement is made to develop strength faster in the first days than ordinary cement. It’s ground more finely, which increases the surface area for the cement-water reaction and speeds up the hydration process. That rapid early strength is valuable for faster form removal, quicker construction progress, and meeting early-load requirements. In contrast, normal Type I cement has standard strength development, Type II offers moderate sulfate resistance with slower early strength, and Type IV is a low-heat, slow-strength-gain cement used for very large pours. So for early strength, Type III is the best choice.