What is it used for
Residential Construction: Concrete is used for building foundations, driveways, patios, and sidewalks, providing a strong and stable base for various structures.
Commercial Construction: It is employed in constructing large buildings, bridges, and infrastructure projects due to its strength and durability.
Industrial Applications: Concrete is used in industrial facilities, warehouses, and manufacturing plants for floors, walls, and structural supports because of its load-bearing capabilities.
Dimensions
Bag Size: 25 kg
Grain Size: Very fine powder
Volume: 25 kg bag covers approximately 0.015 cubic meters when mixed with water
Weight: 25 kg (standard bag) | Approximately 2.4 tons per cubic meter (2400 kg/m³)
Colour: Grey
What it’s Made From
Limestone
The main ingredient, crushed and heated to form clinker, which is then ground to produce cement.
Clay
Mixed with limestone, it provides silica, alumina, and iron necessary for cement production.
Gypsum
Added during the grinding process to control the setting time of the cement.
Additives
Can include fly ash, slag, and other materials to enhance the performance and reduce the environmental impact of cement.
Variations
Portland Cement
Description: The most common type of cement, made from a mixture of limestone and clay, then heated in a kiln.
Applications: Used in general construction for making concrete, mortar, and stucco. Ideal for building foundations, walls, and floors.
White Cement
Description: Similar to Portland cement but made with raw materials that produce a white color.
Applications: Used for decorative works, precast concrete items, and applications where aesthetics are important. Suitable for exterior finishes, sculptures, and terrazzo flooring.
Rapid Hardening Cement
Description: Formulated to set and gain strength quickly, made by increasing the lime content and burning at a higher temperature.
Applications: Ideal for repair works, road construction, and precast concrete. Used when quick strength development is necessary to expedite construction timelines.
Installation
Tools Required:
Trowel | Concrete mixer | Wheelbarrow | Shovel | Vibrator | Screed
Materials Required:
Concrete mix | Water | Reinforcement (rebar or mesh) | Formwork
Step-by-Step Guide:
Preparation: Prepare the site by clearing debris and setting up formwork to contain the concrete.
Mix Concrete: Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer's instructions or project specifications.
Pour Concrete: Pour the mixed concrete into the formwork, ensuring an even distribution.
Level and Screed: Use a screed to level the concrete surface, removing excess material.
Vibrate Concrete: Use a vibrator to remove air bubbles and ensure proper compaction.
Finish Surface: Smooth the surface with a trowel and apply any desired finishes.
Curing: Allow the concrete to cure properly, keeping it moist to achieve maximum strength.
Technical Specification
Compressive Strength: Typically ranges from 20 MPa to 40 MPa, depending on the mix and application.
Durability: Highly durable and resistant to weathering, erosion, and chemical exposure.
Workability: Can be adjusted with additives to improve ease of mixing, pouring, and finishing.
Certification
British Standard (BS EN 206): Specifies the requirements, properties, and production of concrete.
ISO 14001: Environmental management certification, ensuring environmentally responsible production processes.
Purchasing Quantities
Bags
Ideal for small projects or repairs, usually available in 25 kg bags.
Bulk Bags
Larger quantities than individual bags, often sold in bulk bags of approximately 500 to 1000 kg. Suitable for medium-sized construction projects.
Loose Loads
Delivered by the tonne, suitable for large construction projects or extensive construction needs.
Environmental Impact
Sustainability: Efforts to reduce the environmental impact include using recycled aggregates, low-carbon cements, and alternative binders.
Alternative Options: Eco-friendly options include fly ash concrete, recycled aggregate concrete, and geopolymer concrete.
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