Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) is the most widely used type of cement in the world and is produced by inter-grinding a mixture of clinker and gypsum. The clinker is made by heating a mixture of limestone, clay, and other minerals to a high temperature in a kiln, while the gypsum is added to regulate the setting time of the cement. OPC is known for its strength, durability, and versatility, and is used in a wide range of construction applications, including:
- Concrete: OPC is the main ingredient in concrete and is used to bind together the other components of concrete, such as sand, aggregate, and water, to form a strong and durable structure.
- Masonry: OPC is used in mortar for laying bricks and stones, and is also used as the binder in other types of masonry products such as concrete blocks.
- Plaster: OPC is used as the binder in plaster to provide a hard, smooth surface for interior and exterior walls.
- Precast Concrete: OPC is used to make precast concrete products such as pipes, slabs, and beams, which are used in a variety of construction applications.
OPC is available in different grades, based on the strength of the cement, and the specific requirements of the construction project. Some common grades of OPC include OPC 43, OPC 53, and OPC 63. These grades indicate the compressive strength of the cement, with OPC 43 having a lower compressive strength and OPC 63 having a higher compressive strength.
Overall, OPC is an important and versatile construction material that is used in a wide range of applications, and is known for its strength, durability, and ease of use.