Belite cements and their activation

Journal Article · Mon Feb 15 04:00:00 EST 2021 · Cement and Concrete Research

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/J.CEMCONRES.2020.106319· OSTI ID:23206386

Cuesta, Ana ^[1]; Ayuela, Andres ^[2]

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1. Departamento de Química Inorgánica, Cristalografía y Mineralogía, Universidad de Málaga, 29071 Málaga (Spain)
2. Centro de Física de Materiales (CFM) CSIC-UPV/EHU-Material Physics Center, Donostia International Physics Center DIPC, Paseo Manuel de Lardizabal n 5, 20018 San Sebastián (Spain)

Belite cements, BCs, containing mainly belite, alite and calcium aluminates, are currently used as low heat cements. These binders produce high amounts of C–S–H gel and have very good durability properties which are reviewed. Additional advantages include: (i) lower limestone demand, with lower associated CO{sub 2} emissions; (ii) lower energy demand; (iii) lower kiln operating temperature, which means lowering CO{sub 2} and NO{sub x} emissions from fuel burning; and (iv) lower temperature increase at early hydration age. However, early-age strength developments are not competitive with those of Portland cements. Hence, to improve their early-age strength developments is a research priority known as activation. This enhancement can be attained by three compatible approaches: (i) chemical, (ii) physical; and (iii) admixture activations. The current research status for BCs activation is reviewed including: cost-effective element substitutions to stabilize high-temperature forms; fast cooling, milling and mild temperature hydration as physical activation; and the use of C–S–H seeds as admixture activation. After discussion of the resulting microstructures, a research outlook is exercised.

• OSTI ID: 23206386
• Journal Information: Cement and Concrete Research, Journal Name: Cement and Concrete Research Vol. 140; ISSN 0008-8846; ISSN CCNRAI
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
ALUMINATES
CALCIUM SILICATES
ENERGY DEMAND
GELS
HARDNESS
HYDRATION
LIMESTONE
MICROSTRUCTURE
SERVICE LIFE
SUSTAINABILITY
WEAR RESISTANCE