Impact of the slaking method on the mineralogy of natural hydraulic limes and its effects on mortar mechanical properties
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The influence of slaking on the properties of natural hydraulic limes (NHL) has been little studied so far. Laboratory-manufactured limes have been produced to investigate the mineralogical changes that occur during the slaking process. Two different hydration methods have been compared: conventional slaking, by adding water in a 1:1 water:CaO ratio, and passive slaking, by exposure of the quicklimes to a relative humidity of 60 ± 5 % and 80 ± 5 % RH. The mineralogical evolution of limes was monitored under different slaking conditions using the X-ray diffraction Quantitative Phase Analysis. The resulting NHLs have been used to produce mortars, to assess the influence of the slaking conditions on their mechanical strength . The results show that passive slaking at relative humidities higher than 60 % ensures complete transformation of CaO into Ca(OH) 2 , and gives place to natural hydraulic limes with comparable, or even slightly improved properties to those conventionally slaked.
Source: Cement and Concrete Research
Authors: Clara Parra-Fernández, Anna Arizzi
Institution: Universidad de Granada
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $5,180
OpenAlex ID: W4410480860