SEM Analysis and Computer Modelling of Hydration of Portland Cement Particles.
SEM Analysis and Computer Modelling of Hydration of
Portland Cement Particles.
(866 K)
Bentz, D. P.; Stutzman, P. E.
ASTM STP 1215;
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
Petrography of Cementitious Materials. Proceedings.
ASTM STP 1215. 1995, Am. Soc. for Testing and Matl.,
Philadelphia, PA, DeHayes, S. M.; Stark, D.,
Editor(s)(s), 60-73 pp, 1995.
Keywords:
building technology; cement particles; characterization;
hydration; image processing; interfacial zone;
microstructure; phase analysis; scanning electron
microscopy; simulation; x ray images
Abstract:
Characterization of cement particles is complicated due
to their wide size range, complex shapes, and
multi-phase nature. Accurate characterization should
allow for better prediction of cement performance and
more realistic modelling of cement microstructural
development. This paper presents a technique, based on
scanning electron microscopy and digital image
processing, for obtaining two-dimensional digital images
of actual portland cement particles in which all major
phases are identified. By combining backscattered
electron and x-ray images, an image segmented into the
major cement phases may be created. These images can be
analyzed to determine any number of quantitative
measures such as phase fractions or phase perimeters.
The technique has also been successfully utilized in
obtaining realistic starting images for input into a
two-dimensional cement microstructure model which
simulates the hydration process.
Building and Fire Research Laboratory
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Gaithersburg, MD 20899