Many people think that cement and concrete are one and the equal thing however it’s actually not. There are three components that represent to the making of concrete – water, aggregate (rock, sand, or gravel) and Portland cement. (Portland cement is not a brand name, but the generic term for the type of cement
used in virtually all concrete).
Cement comprises from 10 to 15 percent of the concrete mix, by volume. Through a process called hydration, the cement and water harden and bind the aggregates into a rocklike mass. This hardening process continues for years meaning that concrete gets stronger as it gets older.
Cement is usually available in powder shape and acts as a binding agent when blended with water. The key to achieving a strong, durable concrete rests in the careful proportioning and combining of the ingredients.
This combination when mixed and poured is hardened into a durable material. The reason behind the concrete being strong is mainly due to the mixing of water with cement. Also, the reason concrete is preferred is because it is non-combustible material which makes it fire-safe and the ability of withstand high temperatures. It is also resistant to wind and water which makes it the ideal choice, the reason why concrete is used for storm shelters.
Although the terms cement and concrete often are used interchangeably, cement is actually just an ingredient of concrete.