ESEM STUDY OF PHYSICO-CHEMICAL REACTIONS AT GRAIN BOUNDARIES IN CONCRETE/MORTAR

摘要

The Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy (ESEM), with the ability to investigate the microstructure and chemistry of concrete/mortar in its natural state offers exciting opportunities. Here we report 'in situ' studies which provide information on the phases developed in concrete/mortar without alteration by sample preparation techniques. The results include kinetic measurements of the early stages of phase formation and concomitant mineralogical formations. Microscopic modification of these phases under varying environmental conditions have also been investigated including alkali-carbonate reaction products.