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Updated: Jun 18, 2026

Determination of Aggregate Surface Morphology at the Interfacial Transition Zone (ITZ)
Published on: December 16, 2019
Microstructure and rheology of lime putty
E Ruiz-Agudo1, C Rodriguez-Navarro
1Dpto. Mineralogía y Petrología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, Fuentenueva s/n 18002, Granada, Spain. eruiz_01@uni-muenster.de
Lime putty rheology differs based on quicklime type (hard vs. soft burnt). Particle aggregation and slaking methods significantly impact the flow behavior of these calcium hydroxide suspensions, crucial for lime mortar performance.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Colloid and Surface Chemistry
- Construction Materials Science
Background:
- The rheology of lime binders is crucial for lime mortars and plasters but remains poorly understood.
- The relationship between lime binder rheology, microstructure, and colloidal properties needs further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the rheological behavior of lime putties derived from soft and hard burnt quicklimes.
- To elucidate the influence of particle characteristics and aging on lime putty rheology.
Main Methods:
- Characterization of lime putty rheology using rheometry.
- Analysis of particle size, morphology, aggregation, and fractal nature.
- Investigation of the impact of aging time on rheological properties.
Main Results:
- Lime putties exhibit non-Newtonian fluid behavior.
- Hard burnt lime putties show thixotropic behavior, while soft burnt lime putties display rheopectic behavior.
- Nanoparticle aggregation and slaking mechanisms (liquid vs. vapor) dictate rheological evolution.
Conclusions:
- The type of quicklime and slaking process significantly influence lime putty rheology.
- Understanding these factors is key for optimizing lime mortar preparation in historical building conservation.
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