A hydraulic cement comprising a calcium silicate and at least one
phosphate compound. The phosphate compound is included in an amount
sufficient to react a major portion of the calcium hydroxide that is
produced during hydration of the cement to hydroxyapatite or other
calcium phosphates. The phosphate compound is preferably a mono-calcium
phosphate. The cement is useful in both bio-medical/dental and
engineering applications. The calcium hydroxide is reacted by the
phosphate to form hydroxiapatite or other calcium phosphate that is
co-precipitated with the calcium silicate hydrate to form a
composite-like structure on a nano-scale level. The reduced calcium
hydroxide content in the set cement increases its strength and reduces
its pH. The hydroxiapatite content and the reduced pH render the cement
bio-active and suitable for use in medical and dental implants, for
example, for replacement bone and tooth material. Due to its high
strength, the cement may also be used for structural/engineering
applications.