Title

सीमेंट (Cement)

Rare

Sīmeṇṭa

Cement

4.5/5(Based on 2 heritage sites)
DescriptionSīmeṇṭa (सीमेंट), or cement, a modern *dṛḍhaka* (दृढ़क, binder), is a hydraulic binder primarily composed of calcium silicates, aluminates, and ferrites. Its fineness, measured by Blaine surface area, ranges from 225-350 m²/kg. Setting time is crucial, with initial set exceeding 30 minutes and final set under 10 hours. Compressive strength varies by grade, influencing its use in concrete production and mortar for masonry. Specific gravity is approximately 3.15, with a powder density of 1.44 g/cm³. While not traditionally used in ancient Indic architecture, its modern application in reinforcing heritage structures necessitates careful consideration. Conservation efforts must address potential incompatibility with traditional *cūrṇita śilā* (चूर्णित शिला, powdered stone) mortars. The Vicat apparatus [1] is used for testing setting times. Modern *sīmeṇṭa* is distinct from the lime-based mortars employed by dynasties throughout the subcontinent. Its use in heritage restoration requires expert assessment to prevent damage.
Also Known As
Cement
Sīmeṇṭa
Cement
Portland Cement
Hydraulic Cement
सीमेंट
सिमेंट
दृढ़क
चूर्णित शिला
Tags
सीमेंट
Cement
Portland Cement
Hydraulic Cement
Binder
Concrete
Mortar
Material ID
INHFMAT-867574066-20-11-25-SN
URIhttps://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/cement
API Endpoint
https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/cement
Total Sites2
Primary Sites1
CreatedNovember 20, 2025
Last UpdatedNovember 28, 2025

External References

Material Types

Types
Binder
Cementitious Material
Hydraulic Binder
Calcium Silicate Cement
Artificial Material

Regions

Regions
India

Historical Context

Time Periods
20th Century CE - Present

Geographic Sources

Sources
Cement plants using limestone and clay
Cement manufacturing plants across India
Modern cement factories

Properties

Properties
Fineness: Blaine surface area 225-350 m²/kg
Setting time: Initial set > 30 minutes, final set < 10 hours
Compressive strength: Varies by grade (e.g., 43 grade, 53 grade)
Specific gravity: 3.15
Density: 1.44 g/cm³ (powder)
Hydration heat: Varies with type
Fineness: < 10% retained on 90 micron sieve

Common Uses

Uses
Concrete production
Mortar production
Grouting
Binding agent in concrete
Mortar for masonry
Plastering
Foundation construction
Structural reinforcement
Repair material (with caution)

Related Materials

Materials
कंक्रीट - Kankreet (Concrete)
पानी - Pānī (Water)
रेत - Ret (Sand)
स्टील - Sṭīl (Steel)
रोड़ी - Roṛī (Aggregate)
सुरखी - Surkhi (Brick Dust)
बजरी - Bajrī (Aggregate)

Related Styles

Styles
Modern architecture
Reinforced concrete structures

Related Categories

Categories
Modern buildings
Infrastructure
Temple (modern additions)
Residential buildings
Modern Buildings
Temple
Modern construction
Modern Construction
Modern repairs

Conservation Notes

Notes
  • Susceptible to sulfate attack
  • Requires proper storage to prevent hydration before use
  • Contributes to carbon emissions during production
  • Requires proper curing to prevent cracking
  • Alkali-aggregate reaction
  • Chloride attack
  • Carbonation
  • Incompatible with traditional lime mortars
  • Can cause moisture entrapment in historic structures
  • Requires careful assessment before use in conservation
  • Can cause accelerated deterioration of historic materials
  • Requires careful selection and application in conservation projects
  • Can cause irreversible damage to historic structures
  • Use with caution in conservation projects
  • High alkalinity can damage traditional materials
  • Requires careful selection for compatibility
  • Potential for efflorescence
  • Incompatible with traditional materials
  • High modulus of elasticity can damage historic fabric
  • Use only with extreme caution in conservation
  • Requires careful mix design for compatibility
  • Can cause corrosion of steel reinforcement

Recommended Sources

TitleTypeNotes
IS 12269:2013 Ordinary Portland Cement, 53 Grade - SpecificationStandardIndian Standard for cement specification
IS 456:2000StandardPlain and Reinforced Concrete - Code of Practice
Indian Standard Codes for CementStandardCement specifications
Indian Standard Specifications for CementStandardCement properties and testing
IS 456: Plain and Reinforced Concrete - Code of PracticeStandardIndian Standard for concrete specifications
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) CodesStandardCement specifications
IS 456:2000Indian StandardPlain and Reinforced Concrete - Code of Practice

Heritage Sites (2)

Site NameStatusUsageConfidence
Sanghi Temple Hyderabad
Primary
100%
Dilwara Temples Mount Abu
Secondary
100%

Frequently Asked Questions