In cements, generally the increase in strength during a period of 14 d...
Introduction:
In the process of cement hydration, the strength of cement paste increases over time. This increase in strength can be observed between different curing periods, such as 14 days and 28 days. The question asks about the primary factor responsible for the increase in strength during this period.
Explanation:
- The strength of cement paste primarily depends on the hydration reactions of its main components, which are tricalcium silicate (C3S), dicalcium silicate (C2S), tricalcium aluminate (C3A), and tetracalcium aluminoferrite (C4AF).
Hydration process:
- During the hydration process, water reacts with these compounds to form different hydration products such as calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gel, calcium hydroxide (CH), and ettringite.
- The formation of C-S-H gel is the main contributor to the strength development in cement paste. This gel forms a network of solid particles that provides the binding and strength to the cement matrix.
Role of C3S:
- Tricalcium silicate (C3S) is the compound responsible for the early strength development in cement paste.
- It hydrates rapidly and forms a significant amount of C-S-H gel within the first few days.
- The initial strength development is mainly attributed to the hydration of C3S.
Role of C3S during 14 to 28 days:
- While C3S contributes to the early strength, the increase in strength observed between 14 days and 28 days is primarily due to the further hydration of C3S.
- During this period, C3S continues to react with water, resulting in the formation of additional C-S-H gel and the densification of the cement matrix.
- This densification leads to an increase in the interparticle bonding and overall strength of the cement paste.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the increase in strength observed between 14 days and 28 days in cement paste is primarily due to the continued hydration of tricalcium silicate (C3S). The hydration of C3S leads to the formation of more calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gel and the densification of the cement matrix, resulting in increased strength.