The choice of Cement is one of the most important decisions in a construction project. The right cement type is very important for the strength and durability of the structure being constructed. The housing sector is the largest consumer of cement in India, it consumes more than 50% of the cement and India is the second-largest producer of cement in the world.
There are primarily two types of cement- Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and Pozzolana Portland Cement.
Portland Pozzolana Cement, is manufactured by a combination of pozzolanic materials. Along with pozzolanic materials in specific proportions, PPC also contains OPC clinker and gypsum. These pozzolanic materials include volcanic ash, calcined clay or silica fumes, and fly ash which makes around 15% to 35% of cement weight. Fly ash is primarily used in PPC cement.
Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) the most widely and commonly used cement in the world. This cement is available in the market in three grades namely OPC 33, OPC 43, and OPC 53. These grades imply the maximum strength of the particular cement after 28 days. It is preferred in places where there is a need for fast construction and setting time.
