Clinker‐efficient, optimized cements and their effects on mechanical performance and durability characteristics of concretes

Abstract

In the past, many approaches were suggested to improve common cement types, but only rare information is available for optimizing ternary cements. Now, a promising approach was determined to optimize CEM II/C‐M and CEM VI‐cements: Separate ultra‐fine grinding and mixing of clinker‐efficient blends (SFG). The optimization targeted two main goals: 1) maximizing energy savings without compromising compressive strength, using the approach of SFG as benchmark; and 2) achieving the highest possible development in compressive strength for cements produced through SFG, again with a ball mill serving as the reference condition.

Clinker‐efficient, optimized cements (produced through SFG) and reference cements (produced using a ball mill) were used in laboratory concrete mixes. Concrete made with separately ground cements exhibited compressive strength values 11‐23% higher than those made with reference cements from the ball mill. Cements produced by SFG demonstrated lower carbonation depths and enhanced carbonation resistance compared to those from the ball mill.

The freeze‐thaw resistance of concrete was also positively influenced by the SFG process. Across all CDF‐tests, optimized cements consistently exhibited significantly lower water absorption values compared to reference cements.