Structural Properties of Calcium Silicate Pastes: II, Effect of Curing Temperature

Abstract

The chemical and physical properties of C 3 S pastes cured at 4°, 25°, and 65°C were investigated. The 65°C paste had lower H 2 O surface area and larger capillary pore volume than the 25°C paste. The structure of the gel in the 4°C paste changes markedly with increased hydration. These changes were reflected in an increase in H 2 O surface area, decrease in C/S ratio, and decrease in the diameter of the mesopores. The degree of silicate polymerization increased with time and temperature of curing. In addition, the 4°C paste had a significant amount of monomer in the gel, which polymerizes with time.