Properties and Applications of Modern Construction Materials
Stone for Construction
Igneous Rocks: Composed of silicates and other compounds such as aluminum, iron, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium, these are formed by magma inside the earth. Varieties include:
- Crystal: Very hard and resistant to weathering (granite, gabbro, and diorite).
- Glass structure: Basalt, pumice, and liparite (rhyolite).
Sedimentary Rocks
Formed from sediments over many years. According to their composition:
- Siliceous rocks: Formed by sand and gravel.
- Limestones: Include calcite and gypsum.
- Clay: Comes from sedimentary deposits.
Metamorphic Rocks
Produced by changes in the crystal structure. Examples include schist and marble.
Clay and Ceramic Products
The gathering process involves: preparation of materials, molding, drying, firing (cooking), and storage.
- Bricks and tiles: Molded once dried and baked in an oven.
- Ceramic Tile: A mixture of special clays.
- Porcelain and pottery: Made from kaolin; these can warp and are used in the domestic arena.
- Refractory Materials: Refractory clays with high-temperature stability.
Portland Cement Production
Gathering Process and Preliminary Operations
Drying removes excess prior moisture. In the grinding stage, fragments are obtained no larger than 10 cm and are dosed in the proper proportion.
Manufacture of Clinker
This takes place in a rotary furnace. Afterward, it is allowed to cool and a bit of plaster is added.
Grinding and Finishing
When it reaches the right size, it is homogenized and stored for distribution.
Types of Cement and Their Uses
- Portland Cement and variants: The most widely used cement as a binder.
- Natural Cement: Basic cement.
- Steel Industry Cement: Offers good resistance to water and develops less heat during setting.
- Pozzolanic Cement: For use in warm climates.
- Composite Portland Cement: Created by adding compounds to the standard mix.
- Aluminous Cement: Contains 50-60% aluminum.
Concrete Composition and Strength
The amount of cement per cubic meter affects its resistance to weight. Sand and gravel provide tensile (traction) resistance, while water ensures a good set.
Reinforced and Prestressed Concrete
Reinforced Concrete
Fresh concrete is obtained by adding a steel truss rod properly dimensioned. Compression efforts are supported by the concrete, while tensile (traction) forces are supported by the rods.
Prestressed Concrete
This involves tightening the rods before the concrete hardens or tensioning them inside pods when the concrete is beginning to set.
Fiber Cement Slate and Composite Materials
Slate (Fiber Cement)
A mixture of cement and fiber used to manufacture lightweight and rigid plates, tubes, and pipes. These tiles are waterproof, easy to cut, drill, recyclable, and fragile.
Composite Materials
These are materials made of cement and other ceramic or stone components. They significantly improve mechanical properties and allow the industry to utilize cement industry remains.