Hydration: Development of Microstructure

This lecture explores the development of microstructure in cement hydration, focusing on the reaction of different phases, heat evolution, and the formation of various hydrates. The instructor discusses the role of alite, belite, aluminate, and ferrite in the hydration process, as well as the interplay between sulfate and silicate reactions. Emphasis is placed on the evolution of the microstructure over time, including the formation of Hadley grains and the transformation of different cement phases. Various analytical techniques, such as EDS analyses, are also presented to understand the chemical composition of the hydrated cement paste.