Influence of Polymers on the Nucleation of Calcium Silicate Hydrates

TL;DR

This study investigates how polymers influence the nucleation and growth of calcium silicate hydrates, key to cement strength, using titration and ion sensors to gain insights for designing better cement materials.

Contribution

It provides new quantitative insights into the effects of polymers on C-S-H nucleation and growth, aiding tailored cement design.

Findings

Polymers affect C-S-H nucleation stages.

Ion titration reveals additive impacts on C-S-H formation.

Potential for designing improved cementitious materials.

Abstract

Calcium silicate hydrates (C-S-H), the main components of hydrated cement, are known for being responsible of its cohesion. In this respect, they act as "glue" for the other solid components of mortar or concrete and thus strongly influence the mechanical properties of the outcoming material. Given the scarce knowledge about the influence of polymers on the growth and nucleation of C-S-H, this work focuses on the investigation of ongoing processes in the pre- and postnucleation stage of C-S-H precipitation. With the help of titration in combination with ion selective electrodes, effects of additives on the formation of C-S-H can be monitored and quantified resulting in new insights into the C-S-H formation in the presence of additives. Thus, this work can be regarded as a step towards a facilitated design of tailor-made C-S-H, which might result in superior cementitious materials on the long term.