12/11/2025
Cement is a fine powder that hardens when mixed with water and aggregates, and is used to bind materials together:
COMPOSITION
Cement is made from limestone, clay, and sand, which provide the key ingredients of lime, silica, alumina, and iron.
PROCESS
The raw materials are charred and then ground up to produce cement.
PROPERTIES
Cement is a chemical substance that sets, hardens, and adheres to other materials. It's often called a hydraulic cement because it can set and harden underwater.
USES
Cement is rarely used on its own, but is instead mixed with other materials to create mortar and concrete:
Mortar: Mixed with fine aggregate, cement produces mortar, which is used for masonry.
Concrete: Mixed with sand and gravel, cement produces concrete, which is used to construct buildings, dams, and roads.
