BAHIRDAR UNIVERSITY
INSTITUTE OF LAND ADMINISTRASION
DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE
BULDING MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION | (BMC |)
ASSIGNMENT – ONE
TITLE - BINDING MATERIALS
PR.BY
1, SALEAMLAK KINDALEM ………………….1602354
2, MICHAEL HAILE ……………………………..1602124
3, NIGSSTE MELKAMU……………………… 1602282 SUB.TO ABUBEKER (MSC)
4, NEHEMIYHA ENDASHAW……………….1510225 SUB.DATE 30/03/2017
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Content page
1. Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………. 3
2. Definition of binding material………………………………………………………………. 4
3. Types of binding material…………………………………………………………………….. 4
3.1 Cement…………………………………………………………………………………………. 4
3.2 Lime……………………………………………………………………………………………… 8
3.3 Gypsum…………………………………………………………………………………………. 10
3.4 Clay……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 12
4. Comparison of binding materials…………………………………………………………. 16
5. Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………………………. 20
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Introduction
In this assignmet we are discussed about binding materials, that are used in construction and other
industrys.also describe for its type and composition ( have four types : cement , gypsum, lime and clay) ,
application area used binding material and advantages and disadvantages of binding material.
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Definition of binding materials
Binding materials are substances used to hold or bind other materials together in a cohesive manner.
They play a crucial role in construction, manufacturing, and various industrial processes. These materials
are used to ensure stability, strength, and durability in structures or product.
Key Characteristics
- Adhesion: Ability to stick to surfaces
- Cohesion: Ability to hold materials together
- Setting and Hardening: Transition from a pliable state to a solid state
Binding materials provide the essential strength and stability to various structures, ensuring their
integrity over time.
Types of Binding Materials:
- Cement
- Lime
- Gypsum
- Clay
A. Cement
Cement is the most commonly used binding material in construction. It acts as a primary component
in concrete and mortar, offering high compressive strength and durability.
Composition of cement
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Cement is a finely powdered material composed of various chemical compounds.The key chemical
compounds in cement are collectively known as cement compounds and are represented using their
oxide notations. These compounds play a significant role in determining the performance of cement:
1. Tricalcium Silicate (C₃S) (3CaO·SiO₂) - 50-70%
Responsible for early strength and hardening of cement.
Reacts with water rapidly and generates heat, contributing to the early strength of concrete.
2. Dicalcium Silicate (C₂S) (2CaO·SiO₂) - 15-30%
Contributes to the long-term strength of cement.
Reacts slowly with water, providing strength at later stages of curing.
3. Tricalcium Aluminate (C₃A) (3CaO·Al₂O₃) - 5-15%
Influences the setting time and hydration heat.
Reacts quickly with water and contributes to the initial set of cement.
High C₃A content can make cement susceptible to sulfate attack.
4. Tetracalcium Aluminoferrite (C₄AF) (4CaO·Al₂O₃·Fe₂O₃) - 3-10%
Imparts color to cement (grayish tone).
Reduces the energy required for clinker formation.
Provides moderate resistance to chemical attack.
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TYPES OF CEMENT
Cement is a versatile construction material used in various applications. Different types of cement
are manufactured to meet specific requirements such as strength, setting time, durability, and
resistance to environmental conditions.
1. Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC)
The most widely used type of cement.
Available in grades 33, 43, and 53, based on compressive strength.
Used in general construction, including residential and commercial buildings, bridges, and
pavements.
2. Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC)
Contains pozzolanic materials like fly ash or volcanic ash.Offers improved durability and resistance
to chemical attacks.Commonly used in marine structures, sewage works, and dam construction.
3. Rapid Hardening Cement
Gains strength faster than Ordinary Portland Cement.Used in projects requiring quick construction,
such as road repairs and prefabricated structures.
Applications of Cement
Cement is one of the most versatile and widely used construction materials due to its excellent
binding properties, strength, and durability. Below are its key applications:
1. Construction of Buildings
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Cement is a primary material for constructing foundations, walls, roofs, and columns in residential,
commercial, and industrial buildings.
It is used in reinforced concrete structures to provide strength and stability.
2. Infrastructure Development
Used in large-scale projects like bridges, dams, tunnels, highways, and flyovers.
Cement is essential in making durable structures capable of withstanding environmental stresses.
3. Concrete Production
Cement is the binding agent in concrete production, a mixture of cement, sand, gravel, and water.
Concrete is used in pavements, slabs, beams, and pillars.
4. Masonry Work
Cement is mixed with sand to create mortar, which binds bricks, stones, and tiles in masonry
construction.
Mortar made from cement ensures strong and durable joints.
5. Plastering and Finishing
Cement is used to create a smooth and protective finish on walls and ceilings.
It is also utilized for decorative purposes in interior and exterior designs.
6. Road Construction
Cement is used in concrete roads, offering durability and resistance to wear compared to asphalt
roads.
It is particularly suitable for heavy-duty roads and pavements.
7. Waterproofing
Cement is a key component in waterproofing applications, such as in water tanks, basements, and
retaining walls, where it prevents water seepage.
8. Industrial Applications
Cement is used in precast structures like pipes, poles, and panels.
It is also used in industrial floors and as a base for machinery installation due to its load-bearing
capacity.
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9. Marine Structures
Special types of cement, such as sulfate-resistant cement, are used in marine environments to
prevent corrosion and structural degradation.
B. Lime
Lime is a binding material derived from natural limestone (calcium carbonate) through a process
called calcination. It is one of the oldest construction materials and has been used for centuries in
masonry, plastering, and as a component of mortar. Lime plays a significant role in construction and
other industries due to its versatile properties.
Composition
Lime is primarily composed of calcium compounds and varies slightly depending on its type and the raw
materials used during production. Below is the typical chemical composition of lime, categorized into its
main types:
1.Quicklime (Calcium Oxide - CaO)
Quicklime, or burnt lime, is produced by the calcination of limestone (CaCO₃) and primarily consists
of 85-95% calcium oxide (CaO) along with minor amounts of magnesium oxide (1-5%), silica (0.5-3%),
alumina (0.1-1%), and iron oxide (0.05-0.5%).
2. Slaked Lime (Calcium Hydroxide - Ca(OH)₂)
Slaked lime, or hydrated lime, is produced by adding water to quicklime and comprises 90-95%
calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), 5-10% water, and trace impurities such as silica, alumina, and iron
oxides.
3. Hydraulic Lime
Hydraulic lime, containing 60-75% calcium oxide (CaO), 15-20% silica (SiO₂), 5-10% alumina (Al₂O₃),
1-3% iron oxide (Fe₂O₃), and 1-5% magnesium oxide (MgO), sets under water due to its higher silica
and alumina content.
4. Dolomitic lime
Dolomitic lime, derived from dolomitic limestone, consists of 50-60% calcium oxide (CaO), 30-40%
magnesium oxide (MgO), and trace impurities such as silica, alumina, and iron oxides.
Impurities in lime
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Natural limestone, the raw material for lime, often contains impurities such as silica (SiO₂), alumina
(Al₂O₃), iron oxide (Fe₂O₃), and carbon dioxide (CO₂), which affect hydraulic properties, setting time,
strength, color, and contribute to residual carbonates in partially calcined lime.
Types of lime
1. Quicklime (Calcium Oxide - CaO): Produced by heating limestone to high temperatures, quicklime
is highly reactive and used in various industrial applications.
2. Slaked Lime (Calcium Hydroxide - Ca(OH)₂): Formed by adding water to quicklime, slaked lime is
commonly used in construction, agriculture, and water treatment.
3. Hydraulic Lime: Contains impurities like clay and silica, which enable it to set under water, making
it suitable for structures exposed to moisture.
4. Non-Hydraulic Lime: Sets only through carbonation in dry conditions and is primarily used for dry
environments or in restoration works.
5. Dolomitic Lime: Derived from dolomitic limestone, it contains significant amounts of magnesium
oxide (MgO) and is used in agricultural and industrial applications.
Applications
Lime is a versatile material with a wide range of applications in construction, agriculture, industry,
and environmental management. Its chemical properties make it suitable for various uses:
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IN Construction Industry
Mortar and Plaster: Lime is mixed with sand to produce mortar and plaster for bricklaying, plastering
walls, and finishing surfaces. It is especially valued for its workability, flexibility, and durability in
buildings.
Soil Stabilization: Lime is used to stabilize soil in road construction and earthworks, improving its
bearing capacity and reducing plasticity, making it ideal for use in roads, embankments, and
foundations.
Whitewashing: Slaked lime is used in whitewashing and painting walls due to its ability to provide a
clean, durable, and breathable surface finish.
Restoration of Heritage Buildings: Non-hydraulic lime is widely used in the restoration and
conservation of historic buildings because it matches the original materials in terms of flexibility,
breathability, and chemical composition.
C.Gypsum
Gypsum is a naturally occurring mineral that is used to produce plaster, drywall, and cement.
It is also used as a binding material for ornamental designs in interior construction.
Gypsum is a soft, sulfate mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO₄·2H₂O). It is widely
used in construction, agriculture, and various industrial applications due to its unique properties,
such as fire resistance, workability, and ability to form strong bonds with other materials.
Composition
The primary chemical composition of gypsum is:
1. Calcium Sulfate Dihydrate (CaSO₄·2H₂O):
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This is the main component of gypsum, consisting of calcium sulfate (CaSO₄) combined with two
molecules of water (H₂O). The chemical formula represents a dihydrate structure, which is
responsible for gypsum’s physical properties like its solubility in water and its ability to be molded
and shaped.
2. Water (H₂O):
Water is a key part of the gypsum composition, making up about 20% of its weight. It is chemically
bound within the calcium sulfate structure in the form of water of crystallization, which is essential
for the material’s properties.
3. Impurities:
Silica (SiO₂): Present in trace amounts, silica can affect the strength and hardness of gypsum.
Alumina (Al₂O₃): Also found in small quantities, alumina can influence the physical and chemical
characteristics of gypsum, especially when used in cement or plaster production.
Iron Oxides (Fe₂O₃): Iron impurities give gypsum a characteristic color, often yellowish or reddish,
and can impact its application in some industrial uses.
Limestone (CaCO₃): Small amounts of limestone may be present, which can influence the material's
setting time and strength when used in products like plaster or drywall.
Applications
IN Construction Industry
Plaster and Drywall: Gypsum is used extensively in the construction industry for producing plaster
and drywall (also known as plasterboard or gypsum board). These materials are used for interior
walls and ceilings due to their smooth finish, ease of application, and plaster
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Fire Resistance: Gypsum is valued for its ability to resist fire. When exposed to heat, gypsum forms a
protective layer of calcium sulfate that helps to slow the spread of flames. This makes it a key
material in fire-resistant building materials such as fire-rated drywall and plaster.
Cement Production: Gypsum is added to cement during the manufacturing process to control the
setting time of the cement. It ensures that cement doesn’t harden too quickly, allowing time for
mixing and placing in construction projects.
Plaster of Paris: Gypsum is heated to produce Plaster of Paris, which is used for making molds,
sculptures, and casts in both artistic and medical applications.
Glass Manufacturing: Gypsum helps lower the melting temperature of the glass mixture during
production.
Rubber and Plastics: Used as a filler and stabilizer, gypsum improves the properties of rubber and
plastic materials.
Food and Beverage: Gypsum is used in tofu production and as a calcium supplement in food
products.
D. Clay
Clay is a naturally occurring material made up of fine-grained minerals, primarily composed of
silicates of aluminum and other elements. It is characterized by its plasticity when wet, allowing it to
be easily molded, and it hardens when dried or fired. Clay is widely used in construction,
manufacturing, and various other industries due to its versatile properties.
Composition
Clay is a complex mixture of minerals, primarily silicates of aluminum, along with various other
compounds. The key components of clay include:
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1. Silica (SiO₂):
The most abundant component, silica is typically found in the form of quartz or other silicate
minerals. It provides structure and hardness to the clay.
2. Alumina (Al₂O₃):
Alumina is the second most important component in clay. It contributes to the strength and
hardness of clay when it is fired. It is also a critical part of the mineral kaolinite, found in kaolin clay.
3. Water (H₂O):
Water content in clay is essential for its plasticity and moldability. It allows the clay to be easily
shaped and retains its form before firing.
4. Iron Oxide (Fe₂O₃):
Present in many types of clay, iron oxide imparts a reddish or brownish color to the material. The
higher the iron content, the darker the clay will be when fired.
5. Magnesium Oxide (MgO):
Found in smaller quantities, magnesium oxide can contribute to the plasticity and workability of the
clay, especially in clays used for ceramics.
6. Calcium Oxide (CaO):
Present in some clay varieties, calcium oxide can influence the firing characteristics and can
contribute to the formation of cement.
7. Potassium Oxide (K₂O):
Potassium oxide is found in trace amounts in some clays, where it can influence the sintering
process (the process of heating clay to harden it).
8. Other Trace Elements:
Sodium (Na), Titanium (Ti), and other trace minerals may also be present in various types of clay,
affecting their color, texture, and firing properties.
Types of clay
Clays vary in composition, plasticity, and firing characteristics, making them suitable for different
applications. The main types of clay are:
1. Kaolin (China Clay)
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Composition: Primarily composed of the mineral kaolinite (a form of aluminum silicate).
Properties: Fine, soft, and white in color, kaolin is non-plastic and has low shrinkage when fired.
Uses: Widely used in ceramics, porcelain production, paper manufacturing, and as a filler in various
industrial applications.
2. Ball Clay
Composition: A mixture of fine-grained, plastic clays, rich in kaolinite, with high silica and alumIna
content
Properties: Very plastic and smooth, it can be molded easily. Ball clay has a light color, though it
may turn darker after firing.
Uses: Primarily used in pottery and ceramics for molding and shaping due to its high plasticity. It is
also used in the production of tiles and sanitary ware.
3. Fire Clay
Composition: Rich in alumina and silica, with small amounts of lime, iron oxide, and other minerals.
Properties: Highly heat-resistant, fire clay has a high melting point and does not expand or contract
much during heating.
Uses: Ideal for making fire bricks, furnace linings, and other heat-resistant materials used in
industries like steel manufacturing and kilns.
4. Bentonite
Composition: Primarily composed of montmorillonite, a clay mineral, along with silica, alumina, and
other trace elements.
Properties: Highly absorbent, swelling significantly when mixed with water. It has excellent binding
and plasticity properties.
Uses: Used in drilling fluids for oil and gas exploration, as a binder in foundries, in civil engineering
for sealing ponds and landfills, and in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
5. Red Clay
Composition: Contains high amounts of iron oxide, which gives it a reddish color, along with silica
and alumina.
Properties: Dense and sticky, red clay is more plastic than other types of clay, but it has a lower
firing temperature compared to other clays.
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Uses: Commonly used for making bricks, tiles, and roofing materials due to its rich color and
moldability.
6. Shale
Composition: A fine-grained sedimentary rock that consists primarily of clay minerals such as
kaolinite and illite, along with quartz and other minerals.
Properties: Shale has good plasticity but can be more brittle than other types of clay.
Uses: Used in the production of bricks, tiles, and sometimes as a raw material in the cement
industry.
Applications
Clay is a primary raw material for the production of bricks, roofing tiles, and flooring tiles. Its ability
to be molded into shapes and hardened by firing makes it ideal for durable construction materials.
Cement Production:
Clay, especially when mixed with limestone, is a key component in the production of cement,
particularly Portland cement. It provides alumina and silica, which are essential in the cement
manufacturing process.
Ceramics and Pottery:
Clay is extensively used in the production of ceramic products, including pottery, porcelain, and tiles.
Its plasticity allows it to be shaped into intricate designs before firing.
Insulation Materials:
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Some clays, like fire clay, are used in the production of heat-resistant bricks and insulating materials
used in furnaces, kilns, and fireplaces.
Clay is a fundamental material with widespread use across construction, environmental, industrial,
and artistic fields. Its properties such as plasticity, moldability, and ability to harden upon firing
make it indispensable for producing ceramics, bricks, tiles, and cement. Additionally, its
environmental and industrial applications underscore its versatility and importance in various
sectors.
Comparison of Binding Materials:
such as: Strength
Durability
Cost
Environmental impact
When it comes to constructing durable and reliable buildings, binding materials are essential. They
provide the strength and stability that structures need. Here’s a closer look at some of the most
common binding materials used in construction, along with their key properties:
Cement
Cement is a cornerstone of modern construction. It has a few standout characteristics:
High Compressive Strength: This means it can support a lot of weight, making it perfect for load-
bearing parts of buildings.
Durability: Cement resists the wear and tear of the elements, making it a great choice for
outdoor projects.
Water Resistance: While generally water-resistant, it can sometimes let water in if not properly
cared for.
Fire Resistance: Good at withstanding high temperatures, cement helps keep buildings safer in
case of fire.
Shrinkage: One thing to keep in mind is that it can shrink as it dries, which could lead to cracks if
not managed.
Lime
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Lime has been used for centuries and has plenty of benefits:
Plasticity: Lime-based mortars and plasters are forgiving and easy to work with, making
application a breeze.
Breathability: These materials can "breathe," allowing moisture to evaporate, which helps
regulate humidity indoors.
Self-healing Properties: Lime can actually repair small cracks on its own, extending the life of
the structure.
Lower Strength: Although not as strong as cement, lime is better suited for non-load-bearing
tasks.
Gypsum
Gypsum, often found in plaster, brings its own unique qualities:
Fast-setting: Gypsum sets up quickly, so it’s useful in projects that need to move along rapidly.
Fire Resistance: Like cement and lime, gypsum holds up well against fire.
Sound Insulation: It’s also good for noise control, helping to keep spaces more peaceful.
Lower Strength: However, similar to lime, it doesn't have the same strength as cement.
Clay
Clay is a timeless building material with many advantages:
Natural Abundance: This material is easy to find and use.
Plasticity: Clay can be shaped and molded easily when mixed with water.
Durability: Fired clay bricks and tiles are incredibly strong and resilient.
Fire Resistance: Like the others, clay also performs well in fire.
Choosing the right binding material involves weighing various factors like the specific purpose of the
material, its desired properties, and the environment it's going to be used in. By understanding these
different options, engineers and builders can make informed decisions to ensure that their constructions
are not only strong but also built to last. When it comes to binding materials in building construction,
there’s quite a variety to choose from, each with its own unique qualities. Here’s a breakdown of some
of the most common options, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses:
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Cement is the go-to choice for many construction projects. It's incredibly versatile and can create strong,
durable structures suitable for various applications. You’ll find different types, like Portland and
pozzolanic , which cater to specific needs. However, it does have its downsides—it requires water to
harden and can crack if not cured properly.
Lime is another popular binder, especially valued for its workability and plasticity. It’s commonly used in
mortars and plasters, and many consider it to be more environmentally friendly. That said, lime doesn't
have the strength of cement, making it unsuitable for load-bearing applications.
Then there's gypsum, which sets quickly and is great for plastering; it also offers fire resistance. However,
gypsum is less durable than cement-based materials and isn’t ideal for outdoor use.
Clay, a natural and abundant material, is often found in traditional building methods. Its main drawback
is that it requires special firing conditions to harden properly and is generally less durable than many
modern materials.
When selecting a binding material, it’s crucial to consider factors like strength, durability, water
resistance, ease of use, and environmental impact. The right choice ultimately depends on the specific
requirements of your project—think about the structural loads, the surrounding conditions, and the
aesthetic you want to achieve
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Conclusion
Binding materials form the cornerstone of modern construction, influencing the stability, durability, and
overall quality of structures. This conclusion summarizes the key points explored in the assignment,
focusing on the types, properties, and applications of cement, lime, gypsum, and clay while also
addressing their comparative advantages and limitations.
Cement
Cement is the most widely used binding material in construction. Its high compressive strength,
durability, and versatility make it indispensable in infrastructure projects like bridges, dams, highways,
and reinforced concrete buildings. Cement's unique composition, including compounds like Tricalcium
Silicate and Dicalcium Silicate, allows for rapid setting and exceptional long-term strength. The diverse
types, such as Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and Rapid Hardening Cement, cater to specific project
needs, whether for general construction or quick repairs. However, its environmental impact due to high
carbon emissions during production is a concern requiring innovative solutions.
Lime
Derived from limestone, lime offers a sustainable alternative to cement in certain applications. It has
been utilized for centuries in heritage restoration and environmentally friendly construction due to its
plasticity, breathability, and self-healing properties. Lime-based mortars and plasters allow structures to
"breathe," preventing moisture build-up and contributing to indoor air quality. While it lacks the
compressive strength of cement, lime excels in non-load-bearing applications and is increasingly valued
for its lower environmental footprint.
Gypsum
Gypsum, primarily used in interior construction, offers quick-setting properties and fire resistance. It is
the main component in plaster and drywall, making it ideal for lightweight structures and decorative
elements. Its inclusion in cement production to regulate setting times further highlights its versatility.
Despite these advantages, gypsum is less durable than other materials and is not suitable for outdoor
use.
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Clay
Clay's natural abundance and moldability make it a preferred choice for traditional and sustainable
construction. Fired clay bricks and tiles are known for their strength and resilience, with applications
ranging from masonry to ceramics. Clay's environmental benefits and cost-effectiveness position it as a
viable option for eco-friendly construction. However, it requires specialized firing techniques and offers
lower durability compared to cement.
Comparative Insights
Each binding material presents unique advantages tailored to specific applications. Cement dominates in
strength and versatility, lime excels in heritage and eco-friendly projects, gypsum is unmatched in
interior finishes, and clay is a champion of cost-effectiveness and sustainability. The choice of material
depends on factors like structural requirements, environmental conditions, and project goals.
Future Directions
Innovations in binding materials focus on enhancing sustainability, reducing carbon footprints, and
improving durability. The integration of alternative materials like fly ash in cement and the development
of advanced lime products reflect the industry's commitment to environmental stewardship. By
understanding the properties and applications of binding materials, stakeholders can make informed
decisions to create structures that are not only durable and functional but also environmentally
responsible.
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