Cement
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Business profile

The Cement Business produces a wide range of cements, hydraulic binders and limes for construction, renovation and public works. Lafarge is the world co-leader in this sector. In 2007, the Cement Business accounted for half of the Group's turnover.

A strong international presence

In 2007*, the Cement Business:

  • accounted for 10.28 billion euros in turnover, 50% of which was in high-growth emerging economies,
  • employed 45,500 people in 51 countries,
  • had 163 production sites, including 122 cement plants.

 

*The acquisition of Orascom Cement completed on 01/23/2008 is not included.

Cement

Cement is a hydraulic bonding agent which is obtained by heating, then grinding, a mixture of limestone and clay. Most cements are made from clinker and additives and are usually used in the form of a powder. Cement sets when mixed with water. Combined with sand and aggregates (sand or gravel), it turns into rock-hard concrete or mortar.

Geographical breakdown of Cement Business sales at 31/12/2007*

Geographical breakdown of Cement Business sales at 31/12/07

Geographical breakdown of Cement Business employees at 31/12/2007*

Geographical breakdown of Cement Business employees

*The acquisition of Orascom Cement completed on 01/23/2008 is not included.

The Cement Business is located in 51 countries*

The Cement Business is located in 51 countries

* Figures at 12/31/2007 don't include the acquisition of Orascom Cement completed on 01/23/2008

Last update on 06/05/2008

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Industrial ecology

How to create value from waste

Large amounts of natural resources, particularly minerals and fossil fuels, are used to manufacture cement. For many years the Group has been working to reduce the environmental impact of its activities by finding ways to obtain value from waste products.