Phase evolution and mechanical performance of an ettringite-based binder during hydrothermal aging

Little is known about the performance of ettringite-based binders in hydrothermal conditions. This investigation aims to gain insights into phase evolution and corresponding mechanical an binder considering crystallization pressure caused by late-reaction products. Additionally, role fiber reinforcement on strength retention was investigated. When aged at elevated temperature under water-saturated conditions, hard-burned MgO hydrated form brucite. The precipitation growth brucite crystals led a approximately 200 MPa calculated using thermodynamic modelling. Damage observed after 4 months aging with cracks microstructure eventually failure macro scale. Ettringite remained stable 60 °C due Polypropylene delayed crack propagation thus reduced damage pressure. improved flexural composite attaining deflection-hardening behavior regardless