Vicat

Vicat are one of the largest cement producers in the world and the company’s history can be traced back to the early invention of cement. Louis Vicat, a french engineer, sought for a binder which was stronger and faster than the available limes; by combining clays with limestone he produced the world’s first artificial cement and the basis for what the majority of the cement industry produces today – Portland Cement.

Vicat is seen as the godfather of the cement industry, but he is also known for his works on the theory of hydraulicity and how binders harden when exposed to water, by demonstrating the influence of clay content found within limestone. Through this research he discovered natural cements, also known as roman cement. Vicat’s son Joseph began to produce both artificial and natural cements on an industrial scale and this production still continues today through Prompt Natural Cement.