PROPERTIES AND USES OF CEMENT 119 



which would otherwise prevent the formation of a bond be- 

 tween the cement and the stone, and (2) to allow the stone to 

 absorb water before the mixing process. Limestone will ab- 

 sorb a great deal of moisture, and, if mixed dry, it is liable to 

 take up part of the water needed in the process of setting or 

 crystallizing. 



