Types of Cement in Market

There are several types of cement available in the market, each with its distinct properties and uses, which include:

1. Portland Cement:

Portland cement, also known as Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), is the most widely used type of cement in the construction industry. This cement is made by grinding clinker and a few other minerals like gypsum to produce a fine powder. Portland cement is known for its strength and durability and is commonly used in the construction of buildings, bridges, and roads.

2. Rapid Hardening Cement:

Rapid Hardening Cement (RHC) is a special type of Portland cement that achieves its strength within a few hours of its preparation. It contains a higher percentage of C3S (tricalcium silicate) and less C2S (dicalcium silicate) compared to Ordinary Portland Cement, thus allowing it to gain strength faster. This type of cement is used in precast concrete products, repair works, and where the formwork needs to be removed quickly.

3. Low Heat Cement:

Low Heat Cement (LHC) is a type of Portland cement that generates less heat during hydration compared to Ordinary Portland Cement. It is made by substituting a portion of the clinker with a pozzolanic material like fly ash, volcanic ash, or ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS). It is used in massive concrete structures like dams and bridges where the heat generated during hydration can cause cracking and ultimately, structural failure.

4. Sulphate Resisting Cement:

Sulphate Resisting Cement (SRC) is a type of Portland cement that can resist the damaging effects of sulphates, which are found in soils and groundwater. This cement contains a low amount of C3A (tricalcium aluminate) and high amounts of C3S and C4AF (tetracalcium aluminoferrite). SRC is used in construction projects where sulphates are present, like sewage treatment plants and coastal areas.

5. Pozzolana Portland Cement:

Pozzolana Portland Cement (PPC) is a type of Portland cement that contains a pozzolanic material like fly ash, volcanic ash, or calcined clay. The pozzolanic material reacts with the calcium hydroxide present in cement paste to form additional cementitious products. PPC has a lower heat of hydration and better durability compared to Ordinary Portland Cement. This type of cement is used in all types of construction works.

6. White Portland Cement:

White Portland Cement (WPC) is a type of cement made from raw materials containing no iron oxide like limestone, chalk, or gypsum. It is used in architectural concrete, decorative works, and precast concrete products that require a white or light-colored finish. WPC has high early and ultimate strength and is used as a replacement for traditional Portland cement.

These are some of the most commonly used types of cement in the market. Choosing the right type of cement for a particular construction project is important since it can significantly affect the durability, strength, and cost of the project.