Work

Synergistic effects of CuO and CaF2 additives in facilitating low-temperature tricalcium silicate formation and stabilization

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study examines the impact of adding CuO, CaF2, and their combination on phase formation in C3S (alite) clinkers at different firing temperatures, with a focus on reducing energy requirements in clinker production. Clinker samples containing various CuO and CaF2 ratios were synthesized and fired at temperatures between 1200°C and 1350°C, and the resulting phases were compared to those in clinkers without additives. The results showed that the alite phase cannot be formed below 1350°C without additives. Adding CuO to the raw materials accelerated the formation of C2S (belite) polymorphs and reduced free lime content. However, alite formation was still not achieved. Adding CaF2 significantly improved alite formation, yielding M1 and M3 alite polymorphs, with M1 being the dominant phase. The combined use of CuO and CaF2 further increased alite content at lower temperatures, producing up to 36 wt.% alite at 1200°C. Higher CuO concentrations in the co-doped samples shifted alite formation towards the M3 polymorph. These findings suggest that the combined use of CuO and CaF2 can promote alite formation at lower firing temperatures, offering a promising way to reduce energy consumption in cement clinker production.

Source: Results in Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.rineng.2025.104620

Authors: Jeerapong Laonamsai, Ploypailin Tasi, Pongsak Wiwatrojanagul, Manlika Sriondee, Tawat Suriwong, Phongthorn Julphunthong

Institutions: Chulalongkorn University, Naresuan University

Language: English

Topic: Concrete and Cement Materials Research

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,940