Hydration of cement systems in the presence of novel LDH nanocomposites

Development of a new composite technology for programmed delivery and control of admixture effects in concrete and other cement-based materials present is described. A series of new organo-mineral phases have been developed by a "chimie douce" technique and analyzed using a combination of analytical techniques: X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Conduction calorimetry was utilized to monitor the effect of modified admixture on the hydration reactions. The slump loss characteristics of cement paste and mortar samples containing different amounts of these additives were investigated. The results showed that a good workability of the fresh mix was maintained over a relatively longer period.