Cementitious materials

Cementitious materials

Concrete performance is largely dependent upon the properties of the cementitious materials, particularly the chemical properties. Understanding the complex manner in which cementitious materials interact requires career dedication. Producers of high-strength concrete do not have to become experts, but they should at least appreciate that the cementitious materials chosen are supremely important and be knowledgeable with respect to the characteristics to look for. Given the complexity, cement hydration is best thought of as a process that takes place in a “black box.” A producer’s time would be best spent evaluating what should go into the box in anticipation of what should come out. Trying to understand the mechanics of what actually happens inside the box can lead to confusion or misunderstanding, and is best left in the hands of the cement chemists.