Hardening Process of binder paste and microstructure development

Research output: Contribution to book/conference proceedings/anthology/reportChapter in book/anthology/reportContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Guang Ye - , Delft University of Technology (Author)
  • Klaas Van Breugel - , Delft University of Technology (Author)
  • Pietro Lura - , Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) (Author)
  • Viktor Mechtcherine - , Chair of Construction Materials (Author)

Abstract

Superabsorbent Polymers (SAP) added into high performance concrete prevents or reduces self-desiccation (or autogenous shrinkage) of concrete. The mechanism behind is free water release from saturated SAP leading to an increase of relative humility and promoting further hydration. Compared to plain cement paste, the addition of SAP changes the hydration process and the development of microstructure in concrete. In this chapter, the degree of hydration of cement in cement composites containing SAP is reviewed. The infl uence of SAP on the development of microstructure characteristics, i.e. porosity, pore size distribution, morphology and connectivity of bulk cement paste, interfacial transition zone between cement paste and SAP and the voids introduced by SAP is analyzed. It is concluded that the addition of SAP in the mixture increases the hydration degree of cement particle, this leads to a reduction of capillary porosity in the matrix. The additional of SAP meanwhile increase the void in the ITZ between SAP and matrix. Microcomputer tomography image shows that the voids introduced by SAP in the mixture are homogenously distributed.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationApplication of Super Absorbent Polymers (SAP) in Concrete Construction
PublisherSpringer, Dordrecht [u. a.]
Pages51-62
Number of pages12
ISBN (electronic)9789400727335
ISBN (print)9789400727328
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2012
Peer-reviewedYes

Keywords