PPC cement full form is Portland Pozzolana Cement.
OPC cement full form is Ordinary Portland Cement.
Both PPC and OPC cement is used in construction. PPC cement is a variant of OPC cement. These two types of cement differ from each other in terms of component, strength, heat generation, the percentage of several components, durability, grades, cost, eco-friendly nature, application, setting time, curing period, etc. The main difference between OPC and PPC cement I.e. OPC vs PPC are written below.
Difference Between OPC and PPC Cement
In the following table, the main differences between OPC and PPC cement are given:
| Sources | OPC Cement | PPC Cement | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Definition/ Components | A mixture of limestone and other raw materials like argillaceous, calcareous, and gypsum is prepared and then grinded to prepare OPC (Ordinary Portland Cement). | PPC (Portland Pozzolana Cement) is prepared by adding Pozzolanic materials to OPC. So, the main components are OPC clinker, gypsum, and pozzolanic materials (15~35%) which include calcined clay, volcanic ash, fly ash, or silica fumes. |
| 2 | Strength | OPC cement has higher initial strength compared to PPC cement. However, over a longer period of time, PPC concrete develops higher strength than OPC concrete due to the pozzolanic materials present in PPC cement. | PPC cement exhibits higher long-term strength than OPC cement due to the slow pozzolanic reaction that takes place over time, resulting in improved strength characteristics. |
| 3 | Heat of hydration | OPC cement generates more heat during the hydration process, making it less suitable for mass-casting applications where excessive heat can cause cracking. | PPC cement has a slower hydration process and generates less heat during hydration, making it more suitable for mass-casting applications as it minimizes the risk of thermal cracking. |
| 4 | Durability | OPC concrete is generally less durable in aggressive weather conditions due to its higher permeability and susceptibility to chemical attacks. | PPC concrete exhibits improved durability in aggressive weather conditions as it has lower permeability and higher resistance against chemical attacks, making it more suitable for long-lasting structures. |
| 5 | Cost | OPC cement is generally costlier than PPC cement due to the additional processing required to produce OPC clinker. | PPC cement is relatively cheaper than OPC cement due to the use of pozzolanic materials, which are often industrial or natural waste products, reducing the overall production cost. |
| 6 | Environmental Impact | OPC cement production contributes to CO2 emissions during the manufacturing process, making it less environmentally friendly. | PPC cement is considered more environmentally friendly as it incorporates industrial and natural waste materials, reducing the need for primary raw materials and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with its production. |
| 7 | Application/ uses | OPC cement is suitable for applications where faster construction is required, but it may not be ideal for mass concreting due to the risk of thermal issues. | PPC cement is versatile and suitable for various construction works, including RCC casting of buildings, mass concreting for bridges, plastering, and other non-structural applications. It offers good workability and long-term durability in different construction scenarios. |
| 8 | Setting Time | OPC cement has a shorter initial and final setting time compared to PPC cement. Its faster setting time facilitates quicker construction activities. | PPC cement has a longer setting time compared to OPC cement. The slower setting time allows for better finishing and workability, making it suitable for projects where extended handling time is required. |
| 9 | Fineness | OPC cement typically has a fineness of 225 sq.m/kg, which is lower compared to PPC cement. The lower fineness results in higher permeability, affecting the durability of OPC concrete. | PPC cement usually has a higher fineness of around 300 sq.m/kg, providing lower permeability and improved durability compared to OPC cement. The fine particles of pozzolanic materials contribute to the denser microstructure and reduced permeability of PPC concrete. |
| 10 | Grades available | OPC cement is available in different grades, including 33 Grade, 43 Grade, and 53 Grade, which indicate the compressive strength of the cement. | PPC cement does not have specified grades like OPC cement. However, it is commonly available in the market with a standard set of properties suitable for general construction purposes. |
| 11 | Workability | OPC cement generally has lower workability compared to PPC cement. | PPC cement offers higher workability, making it easier to mix, place, and compact. It provides better flow characteristics, reducing the need for excessive water content and enhancing the workability of the concrete mix. |
| 12 | Resistance against chemical attack | OPC concrete exhibits lower resistance against alkalis, sulfates, chlorides, and other chemical attacks due to its composition. | PPC concrete demonstrates higher resistance against alkalis, sulfates, chlorides, and other chemical attacks, making it more suitable for applications where the concrete may be exposed to aggressive environments or chemical substances. |
It's important to note that the information provided here is for general understanding, and specific properties and characteristics may vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific formulation of the cement.
Overall, both PPC and OPC cement have their respective advantages and disadvantages, and selecting the most suitable type of cement depends on the desired characteristics and performance criteria of the construction project.
It is essential for engineers, architects, and construction professionals to evaluate these differences and make informed decisions to ensure the successful and sustainable completion of their projects.