Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 17, 2026

Confocal Imaging of Confined Quiescent and Flowing Colloid-polymer Mixtures
Published on: May 20, 2014
Nanostructure and nanomechanics of cement: polydisperse colloidal packing
E Masoero1, E Del Gado, R J-M Pellenq
1Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA.
Abstract:
Cement setting and cohesion are governed by the precipitation and growth of calcium-silicate-hydrate, through a complex evolution of microstructure. A colloidal model to describe nucleation, packing, and rigidity of calcium-silicate-hydrate aggregates is proposed. Polydispersity and particle size dependent cohesion strength combine to produce a spectrum of packing fractions and of corresponding elastic properties that can be tested against nanoindentation experiments. Implications regarding plastic deformations and reconciling current structural characterizations are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Pore Size Distribution
Adequate...
Fineness of Cement
Direct...
The Colloidal State
Porosity in Cement Paste
The balance of water to cement in the mix is critical—it...
Microcracking in Concrete
Portland Cement

