Cement is a fundamental ingredient in construction, serving as a binder that sets, hardens, and adheres to other materials. Cement agents, or cementitious materials, play a crucial role in the structural integrity and longevity of construction projects. Here’s a detailed overview of the different types of cement agents, their specific applications in the construction industry as well as a list of Canadian companies to collaborate with.
Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC)
OPC serves as the backbone of the construction industry and is revered for its versatility. Being the most common type of cement, it is used in a wide range of general construction applications such as:
- Buildings and edifices
- Bridges and infrastructures
- Pavements and sidewalks
- Concrete masonry units
OPC is favored for its superior compressive strength and compatibility with a wide range of admixtures and reinforcements.
Canadian manufacturer – St. Marys Cement (https://www.stmaryscement.com), a leading producer of cement products in Great Lakes region. Distributor – LafargeHolcim Canada (https://www.lafarge.ca), offering a diverse range of construction materials across Canada.
Sulphate Resistant Cement (SRC)
SRC is specially formulated to withstand environments with high sulphate contents. Its unique properties make it ideal for:
- Foundations and footing in sulphate-laden soil
- Maritime structures like piers and docks
- Underwater concreting for canals and pipelines
SRC reduces the risk of sulphate attack, a chemical reaction that can cause expansion and cracking in concrete structures.
Canadian manufacturer – Lehigh Hanson Canada (http://www.heidelbergmaterials.us), recognized as a leading manufacturer of SRC for high sulphate environments. Distributor – LafargeHolcim Canada (https://www.lafarge.ca/fr), a trusted provider of construction materials including SRC.
Rapid Hardening Cement
Fast-paced construction jobs often rely on rapid hardening cement to meet tight deadlines. This cement type is particularly effective when:
- Concreting in cold weather to accelerate setting time
- Running repair and maintenance works on roads and highways
- Undertaking emergency construction where time is of the essence
Rapid hardening cement offers quicker demolding times, leading to increased turnover rates for reusable molds and frameworks.
Canadian manufacturer – McInnis Cement (https://cimentmcinnis.com) , well-known for producing high-performance cements. Distributor – Federal White Cement Ltd. (https://www.federalwhitecement.com), a distributor of a wide variety of cement types, including rapid hardening ones.
Cement Bonding Agents
These agents are used to enhance the adhesion between old and new concrete surfaces. Typical use case scenarios include:
- Surface repairs for spalled or damaged concrete
- Bonding new concrete to existing structures during extensions
- Improving the interface layer in composite constructions
Bonding agents assure a seamless integration between new applications and existing concrete surfaces.
Canadian manufacturer – Sika Canada Inc. (https://can.sika.com/fr/home.html), a globally renowned manufacturer of specialty chemicals; Ardex (https://www.ardex.com/product/concrete-repair-screeds), W.R. Meadows (https://www.wrmeadows.com). Distributor – Canzac (https://www.canzacgroup.com/companies), delivering quality construction products across Canada including cement bonding agents.
Low Heat Cement
Certain large-scale concrete structures need the steady management of internal temperature during the setting stage. Low heat cement is applied in:
- Dams and reservoirs
- Large footing and thick raft foundations
- Massive retaining walls
By moderating the rate of heat evolution during the hydration process, low heat cement minimizes the risk of thermal stress and cracking.
Canadian manufacturer – LafargeHolcim Canada (https://www.lafarge.ca/fr), producing a wide range of cement products including low heat cement for large scale projects. Distributor – Butler Brothers Supplies Ltd. (https://www.butlerco.ca), a distributor that carries various types of concrete products.
White Cement
Apart from its binding capabilities, white cement is known for its aesthetic applications due to its color. Its uses include:
- Finishings in architectural concrete elements
- Terrazzo flooring and decorative inlays
- Sculptures and art installations
- White or colored mortar for laying bricks and blocks
White cement’s reflective properties also contribute to heat reduction in urban areas, making it an environmentally favorable choice in hot climates.
Canadian manufacturer – Federal White Cement Ltd. (https://www.federalwhitecement.com/products), a leader in white cement production in Canada. Distributor – LafargeHolcim Canada (https://www.lafarge.ca/fr), supplying a wide array of building materials including white cement.
Conclusion
Cement agents are as diverse as the construction projects they bring to life. From the standard OPC for everyday structures to specialized variants for unique environmental and structural challenges, understanding these different types facilitates the correct selection for high-performance and long-lasting results. Whether it’s resisting the aggressive attack of sulphates or setting fast against the ticking clock, there’s a cement agent tailored for every need in the vast world of construction.