Properties of type K expansive cement of pure components I. Hydration of unrestrained paste of expansive component — Results

Abstract A mixture of C 4 A 3 S , C S H 2 and CH , in stoichiometric ratio to form ettringite only was paste hydrated at temperatures between 20–50°C. Unrestrained specimens were tested for expansion, porosity, strength and hydration at different times. Expansions started at a critical degree of hydration α cr , at which total porosity was minimum and strength was maximum. Raising curing temperature reduced α cr and enhanced expansion and total porosity. Mercury intrusion porosimetry revealed a bimodal pore size distribution.