Development of Portland Limestone Cement (PLC) in India using different composition of cement and marginal grade limestone: A sustainable approach

Abstract

In this study, Portland Limestone Cement (PLC) was synthesized by inter-grinding method Portland clinker (PC) with two grades of limestone individually; Cement grade (LS-CG) and Marginal grade (LS-MG) at varying dosages of 0, 10, 15, 20, and 30% by weight, along with a fixed amount (5% by weight) of Gypsum-GYP. It was found that the growth of finer and wider particles was enhanced by increasing both grades of limestone (LS-CG and LS-MG). However, as Limestone per cent exceeded up to 30% in PLC, the normal consistency and specific gravity decreased in the PLC. Investigations suggested that PLC blends with up to 20% addition of LS-CG and LS-MG have qualified the specifications stipulated for blended cement in India as per the Bureau of Indian Standards. It was also observed that the compressive strength of PLC was found to be strongly associated with the 5.5 μm and 3.27 μm particles of PLC. This research suggests that LS-MG can be used to produce PLC.