On the kinetics of hydration with regular Portland cements

Experimental studies and thermodynamic calculations of the kinetics of hydration of alite and ordinary Portland cement (PC) were carried out. It was shown that the gypsum content is a major factor in optimizing the hydration kinetics of alite, determining the activity of regular PCs in an early period. If gypsum is completely consumed before hydration accelerates, or in the first half of the acceleration period (which may be the case with undersulfated cements), the aluminum content of the pore fluid increases, resulting in a longer induction period, or in a sharp deceleration of alite dissolution.

Author: Th. Matschei, M. Costoya

Section: Science and production

Keywords: cement, mortar, industrial wastes, granulated blast furnace Slag