Vietnam has a variety of cement types used in construction, each with distinct characteristics and applications. Below are some commonly used cement types:
1. Portland Cement (PC)
Main Components: Clinker, gypsum.
Features: High strength, suitable for structural concrete.
Applications: Residential buildings, bridges, high-rise structures.
2. Blended Portland Cement (PCB)
Composition: Clinker, gypsum, mineral additives.
Features: Enhanced durability, reduced heat of hydration.
Applications: General construction, industrial buildings.
3. Sulfate-Resistant Cement (SR)
Composition: Clinker with low C3A content.
Features: Resistant to chemical corrosion, seawater exposure.
Applications: Coastal structures, chemical plants.
4. White Cement
Composition: Clinker with low iron content, gypsum, white limestone.
Features: High fineness, bright white color.
Applications: Decorative works, artistic concrete, tile production.
5. Low-Heat Cement (LH)
Composition: Clinker with low C3S content.
Features: Minimizes hydration heat, preventing concrete cracks.
Applications: Large concrete structures such as hydropower dams.
6. Pozzolan Cement
- Composition: Clinker, gypsum, pozzolan additives.
- Features: Increased chemical resistance, reduced shrinkage.
- Applications: Constructions in harsh environments.
Detailed Specifications of Cement in Vietnam
In Vietnam, cement is manufactured according to strict technical standards to ensure quality and durability. Below are some common specifications based on TCVN 5438:2004:
Chemical Composition
CaO (Calcium Oxide): 60 - 67%
SiO₂ (Silicon Dioxide): 18 - 24%
Al₂O₃ (Aluminum Oxide): 3 - 8%
Fe₂O₃ (Iron Oxide): 0.5 - 6%
MgO (Magnesium Oxide): <5%
SO₃ (Sulfur Trioxide): <3%
K₂O, Na₂O (Total Alkali Content): <2%
Physical Properties
Density: 3.0 - 3.2 g/cm³
Fineness: 2800 - 3500 cm²/g (Blaine method)
Setting Time: Initial set 45 - 60 minutes, final set 6 - 10 hours
Compressive Strength (after 28 days): 30 MPa, 40 MPa, 50 MPa (depending on the cement type)
Common Cement Types in Vietnam
Portland Cement (PC) – Used for structural concrete.
Blended Portland Cement (PCB) – Reduces hydration heat, increases durability.
Sulfate-Resistant Cement (SR) – Resistant to corrosive marine environments.
Low-Heat Cement (LH) – Used for mass concrete structures.
Pozzolan Cement – Enhances chemical resistance, reduces shrinkage.
