What type of cement is produced to compensate for shrinkage?

Expansive cement is specifically designed to address shrinkage issues that can occur in concrete as it sets and cures. When regular cement hydrates and hardens, it typically experiences a volume decrease due to the evaporation of water and other factors, leading to potential cracking and structural weaknesses. To counteract this, expansive cement incorporates specific compounds that generate additional volume during the curing process, effectively compensating for the shrinkage that would otherwise occur.

This unique property makes expansive cement particularly useful in applications where cracking due to shrinkage would be detrimental to the integrity of the structure, such as in pavements, foundations, and precast concrete elements. By employing expansive cement, contractors can enhance the durability and longevity of their concrete work, ensuring a more robust final product.