Cement is critical when constructing pavements, bridges, homes, etc. In fact, cement and construction go hand in hand. It is a binding agent and is used to bind different kinds of construction materials. It is also a critical ingredient in concrete. If you are wondering what concrete is, you should know that it is a mixture of cement, water, and aggregates, like gravel and sand. 

Now that you have the answer to the question, ‘What is concrete?’, know that companies produce a variety of cement. Of the different types available, Ordinary Portland Cement and Portland Pozzolana Cement are two. Let us explore the differences between the two. 

About OPC 

When considering a 3BHK house plan with three bedrooms, one hall, and one kitchen, when buying a home, you need to select the best cement. Different construction jobs typically use varied kinds of cement. One of the cement varieties you can consider is OPC. OPC generally is the most common cement variety used in construction. It is manufactured by grinding a mixture of limestone and other raw materials. 

It offers high resistance to shrinkage and cracks. OPC is available in three grades. These include OPC 53 grade, OPC 33 grade, and OPC 43 grade. 

About PPC 

PPC is a synthetic cement. It consists of Portland clinker, pozzolanic material, and gypsum in specific proportions. PPC is highly resistant to marine corrosion or alkaline reactions. It is also an affordable option. 

How does OPC differ from PPC? 

The difference between OPC and PPC include: 

• Setting time 

This refers to the time the cement needs to harden and reach the desired consistency. OPC has a relatively shorter setting time. It begins to set and harden more quickly during the initial stages. This allows faster construction. On the other hand, PPC has a slower setting time. This offers more time for concrete placement and finishing. 

• Strength 

OPC gains high strength during the initial stage of casting. This makes this cement variety suitable for projects that need quick setting. Consequently, you can use it where early strength is crucial. Meanwhile, the strength of PPC is relatively weaker than that of OPC during the initial setting stage. However, the long-term strength of PPC outmatches OPC.  

• Grades 

Per the Bureau of Indian Standards, OPC is available in 3 grades in India. This classification is done based on compressive strength. On the other hand, there is only one variant present for PPC. The BIS has classified PPC as a Grade 33 cement.  

• Curing time 

PPC needs a minimum curing period of 10 days. Conversely, OPC requires a minimum curing period of seven days.  

Conclusion 

Various types of cement are used in different construction jobs. Two of these are OPC and PPC. These cement varieties differ from each other in various respects, including grade, curing time, setting time, and more.