Cement; portland, white, whether or not artificially coloured

HS code 252321 covers the classification of white portland cement, a specialized type of construction material that is widely used in various industries. Portland cement is a fundamental component of concrete, which is the most widely used building material globally. The production and trade of white portland cement play a crucial role in the construction and infrastructure development sectors, contributing significantly to economic growth and development worldwide.

The production of white portland cement involves a multi-step process. First, the raw materials, including limestone, clay, and other mineral additives, are extracted and crushed. These materials are then carefully measured, mixed, and heated in a kiln to high temperatures, typically around 1,450°C. This process, known as calcination, transforms the raw materials into a new compound called clinker. The clinker is then ground into a fine powder, and gypsum is added to control the setting time of the cement. The final product, white portland cement, is then packaged and distributed for various construction applications.

The main inputs required for the production of white portland cement include limestone, clay, and other mineral additives such as silica, alumina, and iron oxide. These raw materials are essential for the chemical composition and properties of the cement. Additionally, the production process requires specialized equipment, including crushers, kilns, and grinding mills, as well as energy sources such as electricity or fossil fuels to power the manufacturing operations.

The primary output of HS code 252321 is white portland cement, which is a versatile construction material used in a wide range of applications. White portland cement is commonly used in the production of 332510 Concrete products, 236 Construction of buildings, and 237 Civil engineering. It is also used in the manufacturing of 327 Non-metallic mineral product manufacturing, such as tiles, sanitary ware, and decorative elements. The high-quality and aesthetic properties of white portland cement make it a preferred choice for specialized construction projects, including architectural and high-end residential developments.