Cemex releases eco-friendly cement solution

Cemex USA has announced a new durable and environmental friendly product that enhances the quality of concrete. CEMSlag is currently available for immediate use in southern and northern California, with the potential to expand based on the availability of recovered slag.

The hydraulic cementitious material is created when blast-surface slag is finely ground to size in order to produce a binder suited for concrete. The material offers multiple benefits, including lower permeability for increased resistance to chemical attack; reduced heat of hydration thereby reducing thermal cracking; and, in many cases, higher 28-day comprehensive and flexural strength than comparable products. 

Cemex officials also note that CEMSlag provides a more sustainable cement option as it requires less energy to be produced, resulting in fewer greenhouse gas emissions. “At Cemex, we are always working to innovate and find solutions that are not only environmentally friendly but also allow us to better serve our customers and their needs,” explains Joel Galassini, Cemex USA executive vice president – Cement Commercial. “Since CEMSlag is sustainable, it can help our customers achieve high environmental standards while ensuring great quality, strong performance and durability.” 

“In addition to all the environmental benefits, CEMSlag provides convenience and extended workability in concrete,” adds Francisco Rivera, Cemex USA vice president, Cement Sales – West Region. “The fine particles of CEMSlag help create a fluid paste, allowing for easier and improved finishing properties. Concrete produced from CEMSlag is also lighter in color, which makes concrete structures built with this cement more effective in reflecting light, and therefore heat—structures become more energy efficient. We are proud to offer this value-added solution to enhance the projects developed by our customers.”   

CEMSlag is currently CalTrans-approved and meets ASTM C989 Grade 120. It is available in bulk from Cemex locations in West Sacramento, Redwood City and Long Beach, Calif.