laitance

[leyt-ns]

noun

1. a milky deposit on the surface of new cement or concrete, usually caused by too much water.

Word History and Origins

Origin of laitance¹

1905–10; special use of French laitance milt, equivalent to lait milk (< Latin lact-, stem of lac ) + -ance -ance

Example Sentences

Even in almost still water some of the cement will rise to the surface and appear as a sort of milky scum, commonly called laitance.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Douglas remarks that the back of the block should always be at the top in molding since the laitance or slime always flushes to the surface making a weak skin which will develop hair cracks.

From Project Gutenberg