Abstract
The use of scanning transmission X-ray microscopy for the real-time study of cement hydration is presented. The technique is illustrated with a study of the hydration of tricalcium silicate. Tubules emerging from C3S grains were found to grow in a contorted fashion when the water-to-cement ratio was 3:1. This is in contrast to observations with larger water-to-cement ratios when the tubules were found to grow in a linear fashion. A scheme for the progression of the hydration reaction suggested by our observations is presented. The potential of chemical-state imaging was also explored and promises exciting possibilities for the understanding of cement hydration.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1099-1102 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Cement and Concrete Research |
Volume | 29 |
Issue number | 7 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Jul 1999 |
Externally published | Yes |