CONCRETEClass 1.6 – Supplementary cementitious materials – From origin to interpreting the notation on a cement bag

Supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) are typically used to replace between 6% and 65% of Portland cement (PC) to produce blended or composite cements. SCMs are often by-products of other industries or have a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to Portland cement (PC). In addition to their environmental benefits, the use of SCMs also helps extend the life of limestone reserves, which are critical for PC manufacturing. Portland and composite cements fall under the category of common cements used in concrete, and must comply with the SANS 50197 standard. This
presentation explores the main SCMs used in concrete—from their origin to their impact on concrete properties. It also considers the SANS 50197 requirements for common cements and discusses typical SCM replacement levels. Finally, the presentation explains how to interpret the notation found on a bag of cement.

Requirements for attending this class:
– Basic knowledge of the constituents of concrete
– Basic mathematics, no more than Matric Level

Learning outcomes of presentation:
The aim of this presentation is to provide a basic understanding of SCMs, from origin to their influence on concrete, and how to identify which and how much SCMs are present in a given bag of cement.

Presenter: Prof. Riaan Combrinck , Stellenbosch University
Riaan Combrinck is a professor at the Department of Civil Engineering at Stellenbosch University. His teaching and research focus on construction materials, with a particular interest in cement and concrete. He has published both internationally and within South Africa, and currently supervises several postgraduate students and research projects at Stellenbosch University.

Date: Thursday, 14 August 2025
Time: 15:00 – 16:00

ECSA CPD accreditation applied for
Only CSSA Members qualify to receive ECSA CPD points. To become a Member visit
our website: www.concretesocietysa.org.za or contact Natasja.

RSVP:
Natasja Pols on or before Wednesday, 13 August 2025 natasja.pols@concretesocietysa.org.za