Sulfate adjustment and early reactivity in cements containing kaolinitic calcined clays: investigation and assessment via a sulfate-limited model system

Understanding the early reaction kinetics of calcined clays (CCs) in calcined clay-limestone cements (CCLC) is required to optimize the formulations for optimal early performance. In this study, a clinker-free sulfate-limited model system (SLiM) is utilized to compare the early reactivity of 9 diverse natural CCs. The SLiM consists of an excess of CC and portlandite, and limited gypsum It is demonstrated that the sulfate-carrier depletion time provides a rate of reaction for each clay which is characteristic of its reactivity in a blended cement. As such, it is shown that the SLiM test can be used to probe physico-chemical properties, including the standard enthalpy of formation of metakaolinite, and to understand the mechanical performance and hydration of blended cement with these clays up to 3 days. In conclusion, a foundation for a standard test allowing to adjust gypsum content in CCLC from a single calorimetry measurement is developed.