CE-302 Construction Materials - Dec 2024 Question Paper

Under each question, How to answer lists the points an answer should cover, outlined by CampusPrep from the syllabus. Check the details against your textbook.

1. 7 Marks
   aDescribe the geological occurrence of stones. How do different formation processes influence the properties of stones used in construction?
   How to answer

   • Define geological occurrence of stones: igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic origin
   • Describe formation processes: cooling of magma, sedimentation, metamorphism
   • Explain influence on properties like strength, durability, workability
2. 7 Marks
   bDescribe the manufacturing process of bricks. What are the key stages involved, from raw material preparation to firing?
   How to answer

   • Define brick manufacturing stages: preparation, moulding, drying, firing
   • Explain raw material preparation: clay selection, weathering, tempering
   • Describe moulding, drying and firing methods including kilns
3. 7 Marks
   aWhat are the essential characteristics of good-quality bricks? How are these characteristics tested?
   How to answer

   • List essential characteristics: strength, water absorption, soundness, shape, colour
   • Describe tests: compressive strength, water absorption, efflorescence, soundness test
   • Relate test results to good-quality criteria
4. 7 Marks
   bList and describe the engineering properties of important types of timber used in construction.
   How to answer

   • List important construction timbers: teak, sal, deodar, etc.
   • Describe engineering properties: strength, durability, workability, moisture resistance
   • Mention applications based on properties
5. 7 Marks
   aList and describe the key physical properties of structural steel. Why are these properties crucial for building safety and stability?
   How to answer

   • List key physical properties: density, tensile strength, ductility, hardness
   • Explain yield strength, elasticity, toughness
   • Discuss importance for safety, load bearing and stability
6. 7 Marks
   bDefine glass and explain its macro molecular structure. How does this structure contribute to the unique properties of glass?
   How to answer

   • Define glass as amorphous supercooled liquid
   • Explain macro molecular structure: silica network, random network
   • Link structure to transparency, brittleness, chemical resistance
7. 7 Marks
   aDescribe different types of flooring materials. Compare their properties, advantages and limitations in construction.
   How to answer

   • List flooring materials: cement concrete, tiles, marble, timber, PVC
   • Compare properties: strength, durability, appearance, cost
   • Discuss advantages and limitations in construction
8. 7 Marks
   bDescribe the properties and common applications of PVC, CI (Cast Iron), GI (Galvanized Iron).
   How to answer

   • Describe PVC properties: lightweight, corrosion resistant, low strength
   • Describe CI properties: heavy, strong, brittle; GI: zinc-coated, corrosion resistant
   • List common applications: water supply, drainage, plumbing
9. 7 Marks
   aWhat types of connections and fittings are used for CI, GI and PVC pipes and why is selecting the right fittings important for each material?
   How to answer

   • List connection types: threaded, flanged, socket, solvent joint for CI, GI, PVC
   • Explain fittings: elbows, tees, couplings, reducers
   • Discuss importance of correct selection for leak-proofing and durability
10. 7 Marks
    bWhat is the composition of oil paint? Discuss the roles of the binder, pigments and solvents in the formulation of oil paint.
    How to answer

    • Define oil paint composition: base, vehicle, pigment, solvent, drier
    • Explain role of binder for adhesion and film formation
    • Explain roles of pigments for colour/opacity and solvents for workability
11. 7 Marks
    aWhat are the best practices for painting plastered surfaces? Discuss the preparation and application methods.
    How to answer

    • Describe surface preparation: cleaning, filling cracks, primer coat
    • Explain application methods: brushing, rolling, spraying, coats
    • Mention curing, environmental conditions and best practices
12. 7 Marks
    bWhat are the common defects found in painted surfaces, their causes and how can they be prevented?
    How to answer

    • List defects: blistering, peeling, cracking, chalking, fading
    • Explain causes: moisture, poor preparation, incompatible paint
    • Suggest prevention: proper cleaning, priming, drying, quality materials
13. 7 Marks
    aDefine tar and asphalt. What are their chemical compositions and how do they differ from each other?
    How to answer

    • Define tar: destructive distillation of coal; asphalt: natural/petroleum bitumen
    • Compare chemical composition: hydrocarbons, volatiles, carbon content
    • Highlight differences in origin, properties and uses
14. 7 Marks
    bWhat are the key characteristics of bitumen? How do these properties influence its use in construction and road maintenance?
    How to answer

    • List key characteristics: adhesion, viscosity, waterproofing, ductility
    • Explain influence on road binding and durability
    • Discuss use in construction and road maintenance
15. 14 Marks
    Write short notes on (any two):

    1. a)Special concrete
    2. b)Advantages of using aluminum in construction
    3. c)Varnish
    4. d)Sound insulating materials
    How to answer

    • Select any two topics from list
    • Give definition, properties and uses for each
    • Mention advantages/limitations with examples