Thermodynamic Stability of Ettringite Formed by Hydration of Ye’elimite Clinker

Abstract

Although the stability of ettringite has been the subject of much research, the solution is not yet fully clear. Ettringite is generally considered to be stable up to a temperature of 110°C; however, some investigators claimed that ettringite may already decompose at even ambient temperatures. To prove these statements, ettringite was prepared by the hydration of ye’elimite, 3CaO·3Al2O3·CaSO4, and the system stored at laboratory temperature in two environments: in laboratory settings and in an environment of saturated water vapour.Although the stability of ettringite has been the subject of much research, the solution is not yet fully clear. Ettringite is generally considered to be stable up to a temperature of 110°C; however, some investigators claimed that ettringite may already decompose at even ambient temperatures. To prove these statements, ettringite was prepared by the hydration of ye’elimite, 3CaO·3Al2O3·CaSO4, and the system stored at laboratory temperature in two environments: in laboratory settings and in an environment of saturated water vapour.