Influence of calcium hydroxide dissolution on the engineering properties of cement-based materials

In addition to the formation of sulfate-hearing phases, the penetration of sulfate ions in cement-based materials also contributes to the dissolution of hydrated compounds such as calcium hydroxide. The consequences of calcium hydroxide dissolution on the engineering properties of cement systems are briefly reviewed and discussed. The survey clearly indicates that the dissolution process markedly contributes to an increase in the porosity of the hydrated cement paste. This increase in porosity results in a significant reduction of the material mechanical properties. It also contributes to an increase in the value of parameters that affect the material transport properties.