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Flocculation and Sedimentation in Suspensions Using Ultrasonic Wave Reflection

Journal Article · · Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, 129(5):2944-2951
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1121/1.3569730· OSTI ID:1013920
This work was undertaken to help understand and interpret the ultrasonic wave reflection (UWR) response of portland cement paste as it transforms from a fluid-like suspension to a solid in the first hours after mixing. A high impact polystyrene buffer (delay line) was used to measure small changes in the P-wave and S-wave reflection coefficients. Two materials were studied: a non-hydrating colloidal alumina suspension whose microstructure was manipulated between dispersed and flocculated states by adjusting the pH, and a coarse silica suspension that readily sedimented. The S-wave reflection coefficient clearly distinguished between dispersed and flocculated states. Sedimentation of particles in dispersed suspensions was distinguished using the P-wave reflection coefficient. Based on these findings, the observed P- and S-wave responses from hydrating portland cement paste are interpreted in terms of flocculation and sedimentation processes.
Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Richland, WA (US)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-76RL01830
OSTI ID:
1013920
Report Number(s):
PNNL-SA-77827
Journal Information:
Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, 129(5):2944-2951, Journal Name: Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, 129(5):2944-2951 Journal Issue: 5 Vol. 129; ISSN 0001-4966
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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