In its most basic form, concrete is a mixture of Portland cement,
sand, coarse aggregates and water. The principle cementitious
material in concrete is Portland cement. Today, most concrete mixtures
contain supplementary cementitious materials that make up
a portion of the cementitious component in concrete. For use in
concrete, supplementary cementitious materials, sometimes referred
to as mineral additives, need to meet the requirements of
established standards and can be used for improved concrete performance
in both its fresh and hardened state.