Basics of Hydration
This process occurs when cement reacts chemically with water.
What is hydration of cement?
This cement compound is mainly responsible for early strength.
What is Tricalcium Silicate (C₃S)?
This gel is the primary binding material in hardened cement paste.
What is Calcium Silicate Hydrate (C-S-H)?
Increasing this factor speeds up hydration.
What is temperature?
This property of concrete increases as hydration progresses.
What is compressive strength?
This is the main result of hydration that causes concrete to harden.
What is strength development?
This compound contributes to long-term strength gain.
What is Dicalcium Silicate (C₂S)?
This by-product increases alkalinity in concrete.
What is Calcium Hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂)?
This ratio strongly affects hydration and final strength.
What is water-cement ratio?
Poor hydration can lead to this surface cracking issue.
What is shrinkage cracks?
This material is essential for cement hydration to begin.
What is water?
This compound reacts very quickly and generates high heat.
What is Tricalcium Aluminate (C₃A)?
This crystalline product forms due to reaction of C₃A with gypsum.
What is Ettringite?
This process ensures moisture is retained for hydration.
What is curing?
Massive concrete structures need control of this during hydration.
What is heat generation / temperature rise?
This process continues for days, weeks, and even months in concrete
What is hydration?
This compound has the least contribution to strength.
What is Tetracalcium Aluminoferrite (C₄AF)?
This product fills pores and improves density in concrete.
What is C-S-H gel?
Smaller cement particles increase hydration due to this property
What is surface area (fineness)?
This stage allows concrete to remain workable after mixing.
What is dormant (induction) period?
This is the term for the heat released during hydration.
What is heat of hydration?
These four major compounds are commonly called this.
What are Bogue compounds?
What are Bogue compounds?
What is Calcium Hydroxide?
This environmental condition can stop proper hydration if too severe.
What is excessive dryness?
Incomplete hydration can reduce this major concrete property.
What is durability?