Is There a Difference Between Concrete and Cement?

Well it turns out we should probably be calling a cement mixer a concrete mixer and our cement sidewalks should really be known as concrete sidewalks.  Cement is one of the ingredients that go into making concrete.  Concrete is made with cement and an aggregate (coarse gravel or crushed rocks - generally limestone or granite, and sand) that is mixed with water. 

The cement is what binds the concrete together and is about 10-15% of the mixture that makes up the concrete.  Today almost all cement is Portland cement which is a generic term and is a combination of such ingredients as limestone, calcium, silicon, iron, and aluminum. 

All of the ingredients are heated in large kilns at extremely high temperatures to create pellets which are known as clinkers (somewhat like marbles). The clinkers are finely ground and gypsum is added to create the grey powder of cement.

Portland cement is hydraulic cement that is hardened in the concrete mix through a process of hydration and chemical reactions.  This type of cement is not dependent on exact water content.   In this process, as concrete ages it even becomes harder.

Concrete is mixed up in a variety of ways for different types of applications.  One of ways to make a stronger concrete is to add more cement into the mixture.  Once more cement is added to the mix, less water is used.  The size and type of aggregate used can also determine the strength of the concrete.  Larger size rocks can mean less cement is added, and less water is needed, making for stronger concrete.  Generally the aggregate is a combination of rock sizes.   

When your project demands exceptional services and the best value, Conco can deliver.  We have been offering premium concrete services throughout the Western U.S. since 1959, and have a regional office in the Denver area.  With state-of-the-art equipment and modern facilities, we work diligently to meet goals and stay within budget.