cementpoeder

Cementpoeder, commonly referred to as cement powder, is a finely ground hydraulic binder produced by grinding clinker with a small amount of gypsum. It is the main binding component used in concrete, mortar and stucco, and sets and hardens when mixed with water.

Most common is Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). Clinker consists mainly of calcium silicates such as alite (C3S) and belite (C2S), with smaller amounts of tricalcium aluminate (C3A) and tetracalcium aluminoferrite (C4AF). Gypsum is added to regulate the setting time by controlling hydration. Blended cements replace part of the clinker with materials like limestone, fly ash, slag or natural pozzolans, and are categorized under standards such as EN 197-1 as CEM II–CEM VI variants.

Production starts with raw materials such as limestone and clay or shale, which are roasted in a kiln to produce clinker. The clinker is cooled and ground with gypsum to the desired fineness, often expressed as Blaine fineness (cm2/g). On hydration, cement powder reacts chemically with water to form calcium silicate hydrates and other products, providing the strength and rigidity of concrete.

Uses and properties: cement powder acts as a hydraulic binder in concrete, mortar and repair compounds. Its performance depends on chemical composition, fineness, gypsum content and temperature, with admixtures used to modify workability and setting characteristics. The setting time and early strength development are key properties.

Handling and safety: cement powder is stored in dry, sealed environments to prevent premature hydration. Dust can irritate eyes, skin and lungs; appropriate protective equipment and ventilation are advised during handling.

Environment: cement production is energy-intensive and releases significant CO2, motivating the use of supplementary cementitious materials, alternative binders and process optimizations to reduce clinker content and emissions.