Settereprotsessi

Settereprotsessi is the process by which a liquid mixture becomes a solid or semi-solid through chemical reactions, phase transitions, or water loss. It is a generic term used across disciplines such as construction, materials science, food technology, ceramics, and dentistry. The underlying mechanisms can include hydration and crystallization, polymerization and cross-linking, gelation, or evaporation of solvents.

In cement-based materials, hydration of cement grains produces calcium silicate hydrate and other phases that bind aggregates and increase strength, while the paste gradually loses plasticity and gains rigidity. In polymers and composites, curing involves cross-linking or chain growth that yields a rigid network. In foods, gelation or coagulation of proteins, starches, or pectins leads to a solid or gel structure.

The process typically involves several stages: initiation, setting (gel formation), hardening or curing, and sometimes maturation during which strength increases. Factors that influence the setting process include temperature, humidity, chemical composition, particle size, additives (such as accelerators or retarders), moisture content, and physical confinement.

Measurement and characterization of settereprotsessi depend on the material system. Common indicators are initial set time and final set time (in cementitious systems), viscosity changes, hardness, and strength development curves. Practical considerations include proper mixing, environmental control, and compatibility of additives to achieve desired setting behavior.

See also: curing, hardening, gelation, hydration.