Key Insights
The cementitious grout market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 6% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. The burgeoning infrastructure development globally, particularly in emerging economies, significantly boosts demand for high-performance grouts in construction projects like bridges, tunnels, and high-rise buildings. Furthermore, the increasing preference for durable and sustainable construction materials, coupled with stringent building codes emphasizing structural integrity, drives the adoption of cementitious grouts over traditional alternatives. The rising popularity of precast concrete elements, requiring specialized grouts for precise and efficient assembly, further contributes to market growth. Segment-wise, the infrastructure sector is expected to dominate, followed by commercial and industrial applications, driven by large-scale projects and renovations. However, potential restraints include fluctuating raw material prices and concerns regarding the environmental impact of cement production, prompting manufacturers to explore eco-friendly alternatives. Major players like Five Star Products Inc, Arkema, Saint-Gobain, and others are actively engaged in product innovation and strategic partnerships to maintain a competitive edge in this expanding market.
The competitive landscape is characterized by both established multinational corporations and regional players. While larger companies leverage their extensive distribution networks and brand recognition, smaller players often focus on niche applications and specialized product offerings. The market is witnessing a growing emphasis on technologically advanced grouts with enhanced properties like improved workability, faster setting times, and superior strength characteristics. The increasing demand for customized solutions tailored to specific project requirements also presents significant opportunities for market participants. Geographical expansion into developing regions with substantial infrastructure investment remains a key strategy for many companies. Future growth will hinge on innovation in material science, environmentally sustainable manufacturing practices, and effective marketing strategies targeted at key industry segments.

Cementitious Grout Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global cementitious grout market, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and strategic decision-makers. The study period covers 2019-2033, with 2025 as the base and estimated year. The report leverages rigorous market research methodologies to provide accurate forecasts and actionable intelligence for the period 2025-2033. Expect detailed analysis of market dynamics, key trends, leading players, and future growth prospects. The report value is approximately xx Million.
Cementitious Grout Market Market Dynamics & Concentration
The cementitious grout market exhibits a moderately consolidated structure, with several key players holding significant market share. Market concentration is expected to evolve due to ongoing mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity and the entry of new players with innovative product offerings. The market is driven by robust growth in the construction industry, particularly in infrastructure and residential segments. However, stringent regulatory frameworks concerning environmental regulations and material safety standards pose challenges. The market also faces competition from alternative grouts and sealing materials.
- Market Concentration: The top 5 players hold approximately xx% of the market share in 2025.
- Innovation Drivers: Demand for high-performance grouts with improved durability, setting time, and chemical resistance is fueling innovation.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Stringent environmental regulations are shaping product development towards eco-friendly alternatives.
- Product Substitutes: Competition from epoxy grouts and other advanced materials is a key factor influencing market dynamics.
- End-User Trends: Increasing preference for sustainable and high-performance materials is driving demand.
- M&A Activity: The market witnessed xx M&A deals in the period 2019-2024, indicating significant consolidation.
Cementitious Grout Market Industry Trends & Analysis
The global cementitious grout market is projected to experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is driven by the burgeoning construction industry, particularly in emerging economies. Technological advancements in grout formulations, leading to improved performance characteristics like enhanced durability and faster setting times, are significant contributors. Consumer preference for high-quality, long-lasting materials, coupled with stringent building codes, are further fueling market expansion. Intense competition among leading players is driving innovation and price optimization strategies. Market penetration is particularly strong in the infrastructure and industrial segments, although residential applications are also witnessing significant growth.

Leading Markets & Segments in Cementitious Grout Market
The infrastructure sector is the dominant end-use segment in the cementitious grout market, representing xx% of the market share in 2025. This segment's dominance is primarily attributed to extensive infrastructure development projects globally, especially in regions with rapidly developing economies.
- Key Drivers for Infrastructure Segment:
- Large-scale infrastructure projects (e.g., roads, bridges, railways).
- Government initiatives and investments in infrastructure development.
- Rising urbanization and population growth. The commercial, industrial, and institutional segments are also significant, collectively accounting for approximately xx% of the market. Residential construction contributes xx% of the overall market, with growth prospects driven by rising disposable incomes and expanding housing markets in several regions.
Cementitious Grout Market Product Developments
Recent product developments focus on enhancing the performance characteristics of cementitious grouts while minimizing environmental impact. Manufacturers are introducing grouts with improved workability, faster setting times, and enhanced durability. The emphasis is on creating grouts tailored to specific applications, like those with improved resistance to chemicals, high temperatures, or vibrations. These advancements cater to the growing demand for specialized grouts in high-performance applications, improving market fit and creating competitive advantages.
Key Drivers of Cementitious Grout Market Growth
The cementitious grout market is propelled by several key factors: increasing infrastructure spending globally, particularly in developing nations; the growing demand for durable and high-performance construction materials; and advancements in grout technology leading to improved properties like setting time, strength, and water resistance. Stringent building codes and regulations also contribute, demanding the use of high-quality grouts in construction projects.
Challenges in the Cementitious Grout Market Market
Significant challenges include fluctuating raw material prices impacting production costs; supply chain disruptions affecting timely delivery; and intense competition among existing players, leading to price pressure. Further, stringent environmental regulations require manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices, adding to production costs. These factors collectively impact profitability and market growth.
Emerging Opportunities in Cementitious Grout Market
Long-term growth is expected to be driven by several factors: expansion into new geographic markets, particularly in emerging economies; the rising adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly grout formulations; and strategic partnerships and collaborations fostering innovation and market penetration. Furthermore, the increasing demand for specialized grouts in niche applications like offshore wind turbines presents lucrative opportunities.
Leading Players in the Cementitious Grout Market Sector
- Five Star Products Inc
- Arkema
- Saint-Gobain
- RPM International Inc
- MBCC Group
- LATICRETE International Inc
- Don Construction Products Ltd
- Ardex Group
- Sika A
- MAPEI S p A
Key Milestones in Cementitious Grout Market Industry
- May 2023: Sika's acquisition of MBCC Group significantly reshapes the market landscape, strengthening Sika's position in cementitious grouts.
- February 2023: MBCC Group's new offshore grout plant in Taiwan highlights the growing demand in the renewable energy sector.
- November 2022: MAPEI's investment in Sopro Bauchemie expands production capacity and R&D capabilities, boosting its competitive edge.
Strategic Outlook for Cementitious Grout Market Market
The cementitious grout market holds significant long-term growth potential, fueled by continued infrastructure development, technological innovation, and the increasing adoption of sustainable practices. Strategic partnerships, investments in R&D, and expansion into new geographical markets will be key to success for players seeking to capitalize on these opportunities. The focus on developing high-performance, specialized grouts for niche applications presents a lucrative avenue for growth in the coming years.
Cementitious Grout Market Segmentation
-
1. End Use Sector
- 1.1. Commercial
- 1.2. Industrial and Institutional
- 1.3. Infrastructure
- 1.4. Residential
Cementitious Grout Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. North America
- 1.1. United States
- 1.2. Canada
- 1.3. Mexico
-
2. South America
- 2.1. Brazil
- 2.2. Argentina
- 2.3. Rest of South America
-
3. Europe
- 3.1. United Kingdom
- 3.2. Germany
- 3.3. France
- 3.4. Italy
- 3.5. Spain
- 3.6. Russia
- 3.7. Benelux
- 3.8. Nordics
- 3.9. Rest of Europe
-
4. Middle East & Africa
- 4.1. Turkey
- 4.2. Israel
- 4.3. GCC
- 4.4. North Africa
- 4.5. South Africa
- 4.6. Rest of Middle East & Africa
-
5. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. China
- 5.2. India
- 5.3. Japan
- 5.4. South Korea
- 5.5. ASEAN
- 5.6. Oceania
- 5.7. Rest of Asia Pacific

Cementitious Grout Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of > 6.00% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. The Rising Adaption of Magnetic Materials in Power Generation Industry; Increasing Applications in Electronics; Other Drivers
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. High Cost in Extracting Rare Earth Materials; Other Restraints
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Global Cementitious Grout Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 5.1.1. Commercial
- 5.1.2. Industrial and Institutional
- 5.1.3. Infrastructure
- 5.1.4. Residential
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.2.1. North America
- 5.2.2. South America
- 5.2.3. Europe
- 5.2.4. Middle East & Africa
- 5.2.5. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 6. North America Cementitious Grout Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 6.1.1. Commercial
- 6.1.2. Industrial and Institutional
- 6.1.3. Infrastructure
- 6.1.4. Residential
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 7. South America Cementitious Grout Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 7.1.1. Commercial
- 7.1.2. Industrial and Institutional
- 7.1.3. Infrastructure
- 7.1.4. Residential
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 8. Europe Cementitious Grout Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 8.1.1. Commercial
- 8.1.2. Industrial and Institutional
- 8.1.3. Infrastructure
- 8.1.4. Residential
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 9. Middle East & Africa Cementitious Grout Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 9.1.1. Commercial
- 9.1.2. Industrial and Institutional
- 9.1.3. Infrastructure
- 9.1.4. Residential
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 10. Asia Pacific Cementitious Grout Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 10.1.1. Commercial
- 10.1.2. Industrial and Institutional
- 10.1.3. Infrastructure
- 10.1.4. Residential
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 11. Competitive Analysis
- 11.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2024
- 11.2. Company Profiles
- 11.2.1 Five Star Products Inc
- 11.2.1.1. Overview
- 11.2.1.2. Products
- 11.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.2 Arkema
- 11.2.2.1. Overview
- 11.2.2.2. Products
- 11.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.3 Saint-Gobain
- 11.2.3.1. Overview
- 11.2.3.2. Products
- 11.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.4 RPM International Inc
- 11.2.4.1. Overview
- 11.2.4.2. Products
- 11.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.5 MBCC Group
- 11.2.5.1. Overview
- 11.2.5.2. Products
- 11.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.6 LATICRETE International Inc
- 11.2.6.1. Overview
- 11.2.6.2. Products
- 11.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.7 Don Construction Products Ltd
- 11.2.7.1. Overview
- 11.2.7.2. Products
- 11.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.8 Ardex Group
- 11.2.8.1. Overview
- 11.2.8.2. Products
- 11.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.9 Sika A
- 11.2.9.1. Overview
- 11.2.9.2. Products
- 11.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.10 MAPEI S p A
- 11.2.10.1. Overview
- 11.2.10.2. Products
- 11.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.1 Five Star Products Inc
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: North America Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million), by End Use Sector 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: North America Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Share (%), by End Use Sector 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: North America Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: North America Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: South America Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million), by End Use Sector 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: South America Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Share (%), by End Use Sector 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: South America Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: South America Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: Europe Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million), by End Use Sector 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: Europe Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Share (%), by End Use Sector 2024 & 2032
- Figure 12: Europe Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 13: Europe Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 14: Middle East & Africa Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million), by End Use Sector 2024 & 2032
- Figure 15: Middle East & Africa Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Share (%), by End Use Sector 2024 & 2032
- Figure 16: Middle East & Africa Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 17: Middle East & Africa Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 18: Asia Pacific Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million), by End Use Sector 2024 & 2032
- Figure 19: Asia Pacific Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Share (%), by End Use Sector 2024 & 2032
- Figure 20: Asia Pacific Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 21: Asia Pacific Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End Use Sector 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End Use Sector 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: United States Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Canada Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Mexico Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End Use Sector 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Brazil Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Argentina Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Rest of South America Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End Use Sector 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: United Kingdom Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Germany Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: France Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Italy Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Spain Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Russia Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Benelux Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Nordics Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Rest of Europe Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End Use Sector 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Turkey Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Israel Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: GCC Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: North Africa Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: South Africa Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Rest of Middle East & Africa Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End Use Sector 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: Global Cementitious Grout Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: China Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: India Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Japan Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: South Korea Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: ASEAN Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: Oceania Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: Rest of Asia Pacific Cementitious Grout Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Cementitious Grout Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 6.00%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Cementitious Grout Market?
Key companies in the market include Five Star Products Inc, Arkema, Saint-Gobain, RPM International Inc, MBCC Group, LATICRETE International Inc, Don Construction Products Ltd, Ardex Group, Sika A, MAPEI S p A.
3. What are the main segments of the Cementitious Grout Market?
The market segments include End Use Sector.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
The Rising Adaption of Magnetic Materials in Power Generation Industry; Increasing Applications in Electronics; Other Drivers.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
High Cost in Extracting Rare Earth Materials; Other Restraints.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
May 2023: Sika, a global leader in construction chemicals, acquired the MBCC Group, including its waterproofing solutions, anchors & grouts, flooring resins, repair & rehabilitation chemicals, and other businesses, with the exception of its concrete admixture operations in Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand.February 2023: Master Builders Solutions, an MBCC Group brand, inaugurated a new offshore grout production plant in Taichung, Taiwan, in order to meet the ongoing demand of the offshore wind turbine market.November 2022: MAPEI invested in its German subsidiary, Sopro Bauchemie, which manufactures concrete admixtures, anchors & grouts, dry-mix mortars, and waterproofing solutions, to expand its production capacity and upgrade its research and development facilities.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Cementitious Grout Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Cementitious Grout Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Cementitious Grout Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Cementitious Grout Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence