By 
Cement is an important binding material used in public, residential, and commercial constructions. Cement plays a major role in the Indian economy. Different types of cement and their uses exist in the market. Each holds its own property and its uses. This article helps to explore different cement types and their composition.
What is cement?
Cement is a fine powder used with a mixture of sand and stone forms concrete. It is used in building construction to build strong and durable hard surfaces. Cement holds brick together and helps in the strong construction of dams and bridges.
Types of cement
Ordinary Portland cement (OPC): It is the commonly used cement used by builders and construction engineers. Portland is the generic name that is most suitable for concrete works.
Portland pozzolana cement (PPC): It is cement formed by the additives of gypsum, calcium sulfate, and Portland cement. It is most often used in projects like piers, dams, sewage works, marine structures, and bridge works.
Rapid-hardening cement: The contractors used this type of rapid-hardening cement for construction in the early stages of the hardening process. It is the best suitable cement used for basement works. It is budget-friendly cement.
Extra-rapid-hardening cement: It is highly durable and faster than OPC and rapid-hardening cement. This is best suitable for cold-weather concrete project that helps in a fast-setting rate.
Quick-setting cement: This cement is stronger than OPC and fast setting than rapid-hardening cement. It is highly recommended for time-sensitive projects or to use in the blockage of stagnant or running water.
Low-heat cement: Mass concrete construction requires low-heat cement for their construction work. However, it requires a larger setting time than the rest of the types. It is more resistant to sulfate and best suitable for preventing cracking during the heat.
Sulfate-resisting cement: It is commonly used in the construction of the foundation in soil that contains high sulfate content. It is used in the projects like culverts, retaining walls, and canal linings.
High-alumina cement: It has high compressive power than the rest of the cement. It is more flexible to work in building construction. It is best suitable in areas that have high weather like frost or high temperature.
White cement: The cement is grey in color. White cement comes in white colour. It does not contain the raw material iron oxide. White cement price is very less than the rest of the cement. It is mainly used in interior and exterior works and garden areas.
Colored cement: The name indicates that it is colored cement. It is mixed with OPC to get the desired color. It is mainly used for decorative purposes and in artworks to enhance the design.
Expansive cement: It grows slightly over time during the hardening process. It is mainly used for concrete ducts. It is quite expensive and it takes time for setting up.
Portland-limestone cement (PLC): This cement has lower greenhouse gas emission that helps increase sustainability. It is similar to Portland cement but it contains 15% fine limestone.
Conclusion:
These are about the complete knowledge of cement, its properties, and uses. Knowledge about the different types of cement helps in selecting the appropriate cement required for the specified project.
Comments