Cement is a binding agent that is used in the construction industry. It is made up of a mixture of calcined lime and clay. The ratio of these two ingredients determines the strength and hardness of the resulting cement. Cement is used to make concrete, which is then used as a building material for foundations, walls, floors, and sidewalks.
The history of cement can be traced back to ancient Rome and Greece, where it was used to make mortar for brick walls and stone buildings. In the 18th century, cement was first manufactured in Britain. This early form of cement was called Portland cement because it resembled the color of limestone from the Isle of Portland off the coast of England.
Portland cement quickly became popular due to its durability and versatility. It could be mixed with water to create a variety of consistencies, from a very fluid slurry to a stiff paste. It could also be mixed with sand and gravel to create concrete. By the 19th century, Portland cement was being exported around the world as demand for this versatile building material continued to grow.
Today, there are many different types of cements available on the market. Different formulations are designed for specific applications; for example, some cements are resistant to salt water or extreme temperatures while others set more quickly or slowly depending on the needs of the project at hand. No matter what type of cement you need, however, all formulations share one common goal: to provide a strong foundation that will stand the test of time.