Abstract: A process for the production of Portland cement and white Portland cement using magnesium furnace slag, a waste product from the manufacture of magnesium metal, as a primary starting material. The furnace slag is blended with calcium oxide and silicon dioxide to form a feedstock which is heated to a temperature and for an amount of time sufficient to form clinker. The clinker is cooled, ground to a powder, and blended the clinker with powdered gypsum to form the Portland cement. White Portland cement may be produced by removing iron containing compounds from the slag, minimizing contamination of the material by iron compounds throughout the process, and cooling the clinker in a manner that minimizes oxidation of any remaining iron compounds in the clinker.

Abstract: A process for the production of Portland cement and white Portland cement using magnesium furnace slag, a waste product from the manufacture of magnesium metal, as a primary starting material. The furnace slag is blended with calcium oxide and silicon dioxide to form a feedstock which is heated to a temperature and for an amount of time sufficient to form clinker. The clinker is cooled, ground to a powder, and blended the clinker with powdered gypsum to form the Portland cement. White Portland cement may be produced by removing iron containing compounds from the slag, minimizing contamination of the material by iron compounds throughout the process, and cooling the clinker in a manner that minimizes oxidation of any remaining iron compounds in the clinker.

Abstract: A retaining wall construction comprising, in combination, a first block having a hollow interior and opposed side and opposed end walls, a recess formed in at least one of the end walls, and an anchor comprising a generally U-shaped member with a base and sides. The anchor is able to engage the recess with the base extending through the recess and a side extending into the hollow interior of the block. The retaining wall construction of the present invention is very stable and can be assembled to a greater stable height than is possible with conventional retaining walls.