Abstract
It is explained how the classical model of the structure of hardened Portland cement paste was deduced by T.C. Powers and coworkers from data on water vapor adsorption isotherms. Moreover, it is shown how the fractional volumes of all major constituents in the physical structure of room temperature cured Portland cement paste can be estimated from information on water-cement ratio and degree of hydration of the cement.
A large element of Powers’ model remains sound after almost forty years, and it remains the only model upon which quantitative calculations of the volumetric composition of hardened Portland cement pastes can be based.
The paper is written for civil engineers in order to promote a better understanding of some fundamental ideas upon which many later developments in concrete technology are based.
Résumé
On expose comment Powers et ses collaborateurs ont déduit le modèle classique de la structure de la pâte de ciment Portland durci à partir de données sur les isothermes d’absorption de la vapeur d’eau. On montre, en outre, comment on peut obtenir une évaluation numérique du pourcentage en volume de tous les composants essentiels formant la structure physique de n’importe quelle pâte de ciment Portland conservée à température ambiante à partir d’informations sur le rapport eau/ciment et le degré d’hydratation du ciment.
Une grande partie du modèle de Powers reste valable après 40 ans ou presque, et c’est le seul modèle sur lequel on puisse établir des calculs quantitatifs de la composition volumétrique de pâtes de ciment Portland durci.
Cet article, écrit à l’intention des ingénieurs en génie civil, a pour but d’améliorer la compréhension de certaines idées fondamentales sur lesquelles s’appuient de nombreux développements ultérieurs de la technologie du béton.
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Hansen, T.C. Physical structure of hardened cement paste. A classical approach. Materials and Structures 19, 423–436 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02472146
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02472146