Kvartsisementillä

Kvartsisementillä, often referred to as quartz cement or silica cement in English, is a type of cementitious material where finely ground quartz (silica) is a significant component. Its properties and applications are derived from the interaction between the cement binder and the silica particles.

The primary binder in kvartsisementillä is typically Portland cement or a similar hydraulic cement. The finely ground quartz acts as a pozzolanic material or a filler. When pozzolanic, it reacts chemically with the calcium hydroxide produced during the hydration of Portland cement. This reaction forms additional calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) gel, which is the primary binding phase in cement. This secondary reaction leads to increased strength, durability, and reduced permeability of the hardened material over time. As a filler, the quartz particles contribute to the overall density and mechanical properties of the composite.

Kvartsisementillä finds use in various construction applications. Its enhanced durability and resistance to chemical attack make it suitable for environments where traditional cement might degrade. This can include applications in industrial flooring, wastewater treatment facilities, and marine structures. The precise mix proportions and fineness of the quartz are carefully controlled to achieve desired performance characteristics, such as specific setting times, compressive strength, and resistance to abrasion or chemical erosion. The production process involves grinding both the cementitious components and the quartz to a fine powder before mixing with water.