Sementindustri

Sementindustri, or the cement industry, is the sector that produces cement, a hydraulic binder used in concrete and mortars. It encompasses the extraction and processing of raw materials such as limestone and clay, the production of clinker in kilns, grinding of clinker with gypsum and additives, and the grinding, packaging, and distribution of cement.

Most cement is Portland cement, but there are blended and special cements incorporating slag, fly ash, calcined shale, and other materials to improve performance and reduce emissions. The typical production process begins with quarrying and raw material preparation, followed by calcination in a rotary kiln to form clinker, which is then ground to a fine powder and blended with small amounts of gypsum.

Global market players include large multinational groups and regional producers. The industry is highly capital-intensive and concentrated, with a handful of firms controlling significant market shares in many regions. Demand is driven by construction activity, infrastructure programs, and urban development.

Environmental concerns are central to sementindustri, as cement production emits substantial CO2 from calcination and fuel use. Efforts to reduce environmental impact include improving energy efficiency, increasing the clinker-to-cement ratio reduction via supplementary cementitious materials, use of alternative fuels, and research into carbon capture and storage and novel binders.

Regional dynamics vary; China, India, and other emerging economies account for a large share of output, while mature markets face consolidation and regulatory scrutiny. The industry faces price volatility, regulatory pressure on emissions, and ongoing adoption of sustainable construction practices.