Abstract: A pumpable cement grout or mortar is described having improved early compressive strength, controllable set times, and desirable expansion properties which consist essentially of cement, sand, sodium chloride, aluminum powder and water. The grout or mortar also may contain one or more dispersing agents, thickeners, and an inert filler. It has been found that the workability of cement grout or mortar compositions containing the above ingredients does not depend necessarily upon the amount of water only as in prior art cements, and the cements of the invention exhibit reduced segregation, bleeding and shrinking tendencies resulting in higher strengths and increased durability. A process for preparing the cement compositions of the invention also is described.