Concrete

Is there a Real Need for Alternate Cements – A Review

Published

3 years ago

February 21, 2022

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The possibility of alternative cements reducing carbon emission

Most economic growth in this century is projected to be in developing countries and statistics already show that these are the same places that are now consuming 93% of the cement produced globally. Consequently, global demand for cement is presently growing at a rate of about 4 % per annum. It is in these places of high growth and need for new infrastructure where aggressive changes in construction practices may also initiate fundamental change in the chemistry of infrastructure cement.

While the composition of OPC has remained largely the same since last century, and the mechanisms of OPC hydration and structure of C-S-H remain difficult to interpret. However, major advances in the use and performance of cement have come from three fundamental areas: (1) construction technology; (2) the science and engineering of composite materials; and (3) admixture chemistry, both organic and inorganic.

Alternative cements could be defined as inorganic cementitious materials that can be used for construction, but whose properties and composition are not yet specified by existing standards, codal practices and regulations.

The evolution of new cement types will need to overcome both technical and non-technical barriers. Requirements for mechanical performance and long-term durability are critical, but standards and specifications, whether prescriptive or performance-based, will also require robust evolution. In addition, confidence in new materials must be acquired by the end user (e.g., contractors) in the field-based application of new cements. In each case, some application flexibility will be needed, because new cements may need to be processed and placed in a manner somewhat different from OPC-based concrete.

Substantial progress should be made scientifically, before these cements can be manufactured at industrial scales. On the other hand, Calcium Sulpho Aluminate cements (CSA) appear to be emerging as a leading alternative cement over the next decade. Indeed, in near future commercial production of CSA cements appears to be implemented in the Western world.

In broader terms, the stimulus and time scale to innovation and evolution of alternative cements depends on public policy. Scientific developments and technology can inform debates, but if the cement industry is to remain competitive in the face of possible policy-driven mandates, it needs to present realistic, viable and impactful alternatives to traditional OPC.

A shift away from OPC will tend to compromise the calcium buffer, and hence the extent of passivity afforded, but simultaneous changes in reinforcing materials away from ferrous metals (e.g. fiber-reinforced polymers) may reduce the need for corrosion resistance. Nevertheless, because of the driving force to reduce CO2 emissions, some alternative cements that may emerge in the next 100 years appear promising.

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Concrete

Ramco Cements employee wins silver at Japan Para Badminton

He partnered with Paralympian Sukanth Kadam to win this medal.

Published

3 hours ago

November 12, 2024

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Dinesh Rajaiah, an employee of Ramco Cements, won Silver medal in the men’s doubles event in the Japan Para Badminton International 2024 held in Tokyo. He partnered with Paralympian Sukanth Kadam to win this medal. Notably Sukanth Kadam had finished 4th in the men’s singles in Paris Paralympic Games which concluded in September 2024.

Japan Para Badminton International 2024 was held in Tokyo from 22nd to 27th October 2024 where more than 200 players were in the fray.

Dinesh, despite suffering a shoulder injury and having his right shoulder heavily taped, treated the audience to a nail biting final. The duo was down 16-20 in the second set and fought back to take the game to the third set where they lost 16-21. Being the last match of the event, the pair won hearts of the audience for their never give up spirit.

Dinesh breaks into the top 15 in the BWF Para World Ranking in men’s singles category and is now ranked 14 in the world. Ramco Cements has been supporting Dinesh Rajaiah ever since he showed his talent in an inter unit tournament of Ramco Cements in 2017. The company had then encouraged him to take up professional badminton coaching and has been sponsoring him for all major international tournaments. Ramco Cements wishes Dinesh all success in future tournaments.

Concrete

Asian Paints Sees 43.71% Profit Dip

Asian Paints reports significant profit decline in Q2.

Published

3 hours ago

November 12, 2024

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Asian Paints has reported a 43.71% year-on-year decline in its net profit for Q2 FY25, amounting to a substantial reduction in earnings. The leading paint manufacturer attributed this decline primarily to increased input costs, a competitive market environment, and a slowdown in consumer demand. Despite the lower profit, the company’s revenue saw a moderate increase, reflecting its ability to maintain strong market presence in the face of challenges.

The company’s margins have been impacted by rising raw material prices, particularly in key components used in paint production. Additionally, the ongoing economic conditions, coupled with sluggish demand in certain segments, have put pressure on profitability. However, Asian Paints remains optimistic about its long-term prospects, focusing on strategic innovations and expanding its market share in the premium product segments.

In response to these challenges, the company has reaffirmed its commitment to cost-efficiency and improving operational performance. Asian Paints continues to explore new avenues for growth, including enhancing its product portfolio and leveraging its extensive distribution network to drive sales across diverse consumer segments.

Concrete

Ambuja Cements seeks CCI approval to acquire majority stake in Orient

Ambuja Cements’ stake would rise to 72.8 per cent, as per the notice filed with the CCI.

Published

3 hours ago

November 12, 2024

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Billionaire Gautam Adani-led Ambuja Cements has sought approval from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) for the acquisition of a majority stake in CK Birla group firm Orient Cement in a deal worth Rs 81 billion.

According to a notice from the CCI, the proposed transaction involves a two-stage acquisition process, which was initiated through two share purchase agreements (SPAs) on October 22, 2024. As part of the deal, Ambuja Cements will initially acquire a 46.80 per cent stake in Orient Cement. This includes a 37.90 per cent stake from the current promoter group and an additional 8.90 per cent from certain public shareholders.

The notice further stated that following the acquisition of shares, an obligation would be triggered for the acquirer to make an open offer under the Sebi’s SAST (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) rules, aimed at acquiring up to 26 per cent of the expanded share capital of the target company. If the open offer is fully accepted, Ambuja Cements’ stake would rise to 72.8 per cent, as per the notice filed with the CCI.

In October, the Adani Group, led by Gautam Adani, had announced the signing of a binding agreement to acquire Orient Cement (OCL) at an equity value of Rs 81 billion. This acquisition would increase Adani Cement’s capacity by 16.6 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), which is operated through Ambuja Cements.

Ambuja Cements, part of the diversified Adani Group, is a leading cement and building materials company in India. It operates 22 integrated cement plants, 10 bulk cement terminals, and 21 grinding units across the country.