The focus of this article is white cement and how it differs from grey Portland cement. Despite their similarities, the key difference between these two types of cement lies in their color and fineness. The raw materials used in the manufacturing process and the production methods are responsible for the distinct color of white cement.
To gain a deeper understanding of white cement, this article delves into its manufacturing process, properties, and uses. The article provides readers with comprehensive information on the subject matter.
Manufacture of White Cement
White cement is manufactured using a process similar to that of grey cement. However, the selection of raw materials plays a crucial role in the manufacturing process. Grey cement owes its color to the presence of oxides of various elements, such as chromium, manganese, iron, copper, vanadium, nickel, and titanium. In contrast, the raw materials used in white cement production contain these elements in minimal amounts.
Limestone and clay are the primary raw materials used in the manufacturing of white cement. The process of making white cement follows the same steps as ordinary Portland cement (OPC), but with a few notable differences. The heat required for burning the raw materials in the production of white cement is higher than that of OPC. Additionally, white cement must be ground to a higher degree of fineness than grey cement.
Fig 1: Concrete made of White cement.
Following Raw material are used to make white cement
The first paragraph describes limestone as a mineral with high levels of carbonate and low levels of iron. Meanwhile, the second paragraph characterizes clay as a substance that contains high amounts of alumina and low amounts of iron. The third paragraph lists various materials, including oil, pet coke, and rubber. Finally, the fourth paragraph mentions gypsum and salenile as distinct substances.
Properties of White Cement
Table 1: Properties of white cement and their values.
| Properties | Value |
| Fineness | 395 m2/kg |
| Setting Time | 100 min |
| Compressive Strength | |
| 1 day | 21 MPa |
| 2 day | 38 MPa |
| 7 day | 61 MPa |
| 28 day | 74 MPa |
| Compact Density | 3150 kg/m3 |
| Bulk Density | 1100 kg/m3 |
| Brightness | 87% |
Uses of White Cement
White cement is a type of cement that is primarily used for prestigious construction projects and decorative works. Its unique properties make it a popular choice for applications that require brightly colored concretes and mortars. Inorganic pigments can be added to produce a wide range of colors, and the resulting concretes are often used in architectural beauty, interior and exterior decorations, floorings, and ornamental concrete products such as idols.
Compared to grey cement, which is mostly used for construction purposes, white cement is highly reflective and is therefore used in road construction to add visibility to highway medians. In addition, it is widely used for manufacturing precast members that require a beautiful appearance. Cast stones made with white Portland cement are also highly appealing and are commonly used for decorative purposes.
However, white cement is relatively expensive compared to other types of cement and is therefore used selectively. Despite its high cost, it remains a popular choice for applications that require a visually appealing finish. Whether it’s for ornamental concrete products or decorative precast members, white cement continues to be a versatile and sought-after material in the construction industry.
Fig 2: Building constructed using white cement.
Differences between White Cement and Grey Cement
Table 2: Difference between grey and white cement.
| Properties | Grey Cement | White Cement |
| Raw Materials | Raw materials contain a high amount of Iron Oxide and Manganese Oxide. | Raw materials contain a very little amount of Iron Oxide and Manganese Oxide. |
| Fineness | Usually less fine than white cement. | Usually finer than gray cement. |
| Kiln Fuel | Coal, petroleum coke, fuel oil, natural gas. | Oil is used to avoid contamination by coal ash. |
| Energy Consumption | Low. | High. |
| Cost | Less expensive. | Expensive than gray cement. |