low-alkali cement

cement

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

Low-alkali cement is a type of portland cement with a total alkali content not exceeding 0.6 percent. This specific composition is crucial when used with certain aggregates that contain silica. These silica-containing aggregates can react with alkalies in the cement, leading to expansion and potential disruption of the concrete.1

Low-heat cement, on the other hand, is specially prepared to generate less heat during its setting and hardening process. This is distinct from low-alkali cement, which is formulated to prevent alkali-aggregate reactions.21

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

4 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

cement
Types of portland cement
Low-alkali cements are portland cements with a total content of alkalies not above 0.6 percent. These are used in concrete made with certain types of aggregates that contain a form of silica that reacts with alkalies to cause an expansion that can disrupt a concrete.
Read More
Low-alkali cements are portland cements with a total content of alkalies not above 0.6 percent. These are used in concrete made with certain types of aggregates that contain a form of silica that reacts with alkalies to cause an expansion that can disrupt a concrete.
Read More