Ordinary Portland & Portland Pozzolana Cement

Portland Pozzolana Cement – PPC Cement: 

Unlike Ordinary Portland Cement, Portland Pozzolana cement (PPC) is manufactured by combination of pozzolanic materials. Pozzolana is an artificial or natural material which has silica in it in a reactive form. Along with pozzolanic materials in specific proportions, PPC also contains OPC clinker and gypsum. These pozzolanic materials includes volcanic ash, calcined clay or silica fumes and fly ash which make around 15% to 35% of cement weight.

Ordinary Portland Cement – OPC Cement:

Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) the most widely and commonly used cement in the world. This type of cement is manufactured to powder by mixing limestone and other raw materials which consist of argillaceous, calcareous and gypsum. It is preferred in places where there is need of fast construction. This cement is available in the market in three grades namely OPC 33, OPC 43 and OPC 53.These grades imply the maximum strength of the particular cement after 28 days.

Difference between OPC and PPC:

The main differences in their characteristics and uses are:

• Pozzolana materials such as fly ash, volcanic ash are added to OPC so that PPC is created. Hence PPC is just a variation of OPC.
• Both PPC and OPC cements are ecofriendly. But PPC employs natural and industrial waste which reduces the environment pollution.
• In OPC cement there are 3 grades available and the strength of PPC matches OPC 33 after the process of curing.
• PPC has low initial setting strength than OPC but it hardens over time with proper curing.
• PPC is cheaper than OPC.

Uses of PPC and OPC:

PPC is believed to be future product considering it various applications in the construction industry. They are suitable to use in hostile environmental conditions. They can be reliably utilized in the construction of marine structures, masonry mortars and plastering, hydraulic structures. Besides, they are popularly used in mass concreting works, such as dykes, sewage pipes, dams, etc. PPC is also employed in all other applications where OPC is used.

OPC is the most commonly used cement worldwide. The cost of production is not expensive making it the sought after cement in the building industry. They are widely used for the construction of high-rise buildings, roads, dams, bridges, flyovers. Also, Ordinary Portland Cement is used for making grouts and mortars. OPC is ideal for the construction of residential and industrial complexes.

Conclusion:

Both OPC and PPC are commonly used cements in construction. Now a days, PPC is used as a substitute of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC Cement). Since PPC contains pozzolanic materials, it helps to enhance the strength of concrete. The quantity of PPC required in making the concrete is less when compared to OPC. PPC is a green material which contributes towards sustainable development.