An analysis of the properties of Portland limestone cements and concrete

In this paper the main factors affecting the properties of Portland limestone cements are discussed while the hydration behavior of limestone cements is examined. In addition, the intergrinding process, concerning the production of the limestone cements, is studied. Finally the properties and the behavior of limestone cement concrete as well as the corrosion behavior of limestone cement mortar are investigated. It is concluded that the fineness of clinker and limestone is strongly connected with the limestone content and the fineness of the cement. The limestone cements indicate satisfactory strength and generally demand less water than the relative pure cements, The limestone addition improves the clinker reactivity and the exploitation of its hydraulic potential. The Portland limestone cements indicate competitive concrete properties and improve the corrosion performance of the concrete. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.