Cement Hydrate Synthesis

About

Challenge Calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) is the primary product of cement hydration, and the fundamental properties of cementitious materials are dependent to a great extent on the shape and packing of the CSH nanoparticles that serve as their building blocks.  Controlling the morphology, crystal size, and porosity of the CSH nanoparticles is important to determining their biocompatibility, stability, and electrical and mechanical properties.   Solution Rice researchers have developed a surfactant-assisted sonochemical method to produce shape- and size-controlled CSH nanoparticles that can self-assemble into densely packed cementitious systems. Benefits and Features   Adjustment of stoichiometry (calcium source to silicate source), surfactant, solvent, and/or reaction conditions allows for controlled and selective production of a variety of CSH nanoparticle shapes and sizes, including cubic, rectangular, spherical, and rod-like particles CSH particles of present invention can self-assemble to form a very compact microstructure of cement hydrate with near zero porosity Simple and environmentally friendly method using affordable starting materials Provides cementitious materials with improved mechanical properties, durability and near zero porosity Market Potential / Applications The method has applicability in all types of cementitious materials.  The biocompatibility, stability, and heat-insulating ability of the calcium silicate hydrate provide advantages in dental or bone cements.