Buying the right Cement

Cement, in simple terms, is a strengthener that can become hardened when dried and thus, helps in maintaining a tight bond between two or more compatible objects.

The origin of the word ‘cement’ came from a roman term “opus caementicium”. It signifies masonry that seemed similar to concrete. It was prepared with crushed rock with burnt lime as a glue to keep the structure together.

The early usage of cement was through the Roman engineers in their master- piece structures all over the empire. The monolithic dome of the Pantheon in Rome is a standing example of the early usage of hydraulic cement by the roman engineers.

The system of using the powerful mix of concrete diminished in the medieval Europe. However, Pozzolanic concrete was continued to be used as a binder for stone wall structures and large columns although It was considered weak.

Modern Cement is known as Hydraulic cement. It’s usage began since the beginning of Industrial Revolution in Modern Europe, around the 1800.The major reasons behind the idea of manufacturing hydraulic cement are;  a) To complete brick constructions in damp climate. b) Requirement of Hydraulic mortars in harbours and also to build structures around the sea-water c) To builds stronger Concrete structures.

Usage of Cement

Cement is used for plastering purposes along with lime and sand to increase the strength of the building- surface. It’s used in variety of domestic projects in our surroundings. Such as walls, stairs, side-walks, foot holds etc.

Types of cement

Portland cement, Portland Blast furnace cement, Portland Fly ash Cement, Portland Pozzuoli Cement, Masonry Cements, super sulphate cement, Natural Cements, etc. Portland cement is the most commonly used term for cement. It’s used in proportionate amounts with water/lime and sand to make the concrete mix.

The types of Cement Mixers that are mainly used are Electric and Gas powered. The most commonly used are the Gas-Powered. The mixers need to place on a level ground carefully before use. A Water- body near the installed mixers is essential.

An ideal concrete mix contains one portion of Portland cement (which is the purest form of cement), with one portion of aggregate or small stone chips and twenty-four portion of water. Concrete and mortar are two basic forms of pre-mixed cement. However, water remains to be added while usage.

Ill-Effects on Cement production

Cement production causes much environmental hazards. It results in air pollution through dust, chemical gases, and also during usage of the cement mixing machinery. Often during blasts the quarries (open mines containing rocks or minerals) are disrupted. Also the landscapes are spoilt due to the dust and noise pollution created from the production of cement.