Sometimes we are faced with strange statements implying that cement is “bagged concrete”. Naturally this is not true. Cement is simply the key component of a concrete mix.
Generally cement is a mineral binder which, obviously, is produced in cement plants. Its most essential property is setting after its make-up with water. To put it quite simply, basically cement is made of mineral components (marl, limestone or loam) baked into clinker in a special oven. Next clinker is ground with appropriate additives, in most cases gypsum, ash, slag or limestone and – already as cement – stored in silos.
Incorporation of appropriate proportions of additives changes cement properties, and consequently also of a concrete mix produced of it. This means that appropriate cement may cause among others swelling of a concrete mass during its setting or hastening of setting, and also make concrete resistant to sulphates.
On the other hand, concrete is a composite formed by mixing an adhesive (cement) and of aggregate (sand, gravel) with water and other additives or admixtures. There are several types of concrete, which are categorised taking into consideration its physical properties, compaction or laying technologies, weight or location of its usage. The majority of concrete brands were described in our article “Concrete classification methods”. We hope you find our article interesting!
