Cementhidratáció

Cementhidratáció is the chemical reaction that occurs when cement, a binder material, comes into contact with water. This process is essential for the hardening and strengthening of concrete and mortar. When water is added to cement, it initiates a complex series of reactions where the anhydrous cement compounds, primarily calcium silicates and calcium aluminates, react with water molecules to form hydrated compounds. The main products of this hydration are calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gel and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), also known as portlandite. The formation of C-S-H gel is particularly important as it is the primary binding phase responsible for the strength and durability of hardened cement paste. The rate and extent of hydration are influenced by factors such as the type of cement, water-cement ratio, temperature, and the presence of admixtures. The process is exothermic, releasing heat as it proceeds. Initially, hydration is rapid, leading to a quick increase in strength, but it continues at a slower rate for an extended period, contributing to the long-term strength development of concrete. Understanding cement hydration is crucial for controlling the properties of concrete and ensuring its performance in various applications.