Used extensively by the ancient Romans, cement is one of the world’s oldest building materials. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a complex, sophisticated material. Yet the fundamental benefits it brings to construction — strength, durability, and resilience — are valued more than ever.

A Cement for All Reasons

Engineers and construction professionals often specify a certain type of portland cement to meet special requirements of conditions.

Cement types are defined by a variety of standards and specifications. Portland cements conform to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) C150 Standard Specification for Portland Cement and Canadian Standards Association (CSA) A3001. Some cements may meet multiple types. All Lehigh Cement products are manufactured to comply with applicable CSA, ASTM, AASHTO or API Standards.

The standards above address the following types of portland and general use cement:

ASTM Type I (CSA Type GU), Normal / General Use: General purpose portland cement suitable for concrete that does not require special properties. Type I cement is commonly found in general construction applications such as most buildings, bridges, pavements, precast and masonry units, etc.

ASTM Type II (CSA Type MS), Moderate Sulfate Resistance: Portland cement used for concrete exposed to soil or water with moderate sulfate concentrations. Other measures for controlling sulfate resistance, such as the use of blended cements which provide an equivalent or better performance, are becoming more common in certain areas.

ASTM Type II-MH (CSA Type MH), Moderate Heat of Hydration: Moderate sulfate-resistant cement that also reduces heat generation caused by hydration. Other measures for controlling the heat of hydration and sulfate resistance, such as the use of blended cements which provide an equivalent or better performance, are becoming more common in certain areas.

ASTM Type III (CSA Type HE), High Early Strength: Portland cement that develops strength sooner than normal cements and is suitable for rapid construction, early form removal, cold weather, or when the concrete must be put into service quickly.

ASTM Type IV (CSA Type LH), Low Heat of Hydration: A slow reacting cement which minimizes heat generation used in concrete for massive structures, such as bridge supports or dams. Other measures for controlling the heat of hydration, such as the use of blended cements which provide an equivalent or better performance, are becoming more common in certain areas.

ASTM Type V (CSA Type HS), High Sulfate Resistance: Portland cement used in concrete exposed to severe sulfate concentrations. Other measures for controlling sulfate resistance, such as the use of blended cements which provide an equivalent or better performance, are becoming more common in certain areas.

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