Development of a research methodology aimed at controlling the formation of the microstructure of cement composites

Introduction. The development of a research methodology aimed at controlling the structural formation of cementitious composites is a pressing challenge in modern concrete technology, which involves multi-component mixtures and additives. Addressing this challenge requires the application of methods for the quantitative assessment of structure and properties at various scales and stages of structural formation. The aim of this work is to develop a research methodology based on the analysis and identification of patterns in the formation of structure and properties at various scales and stages of structure formation, aimed at improving the efficiency of cement composite and concrete technology.

Materials and methods. The analysis of the structural formation of dispersed systems and cement composites was carried out using a fractal cluster model and percolation theory. The following physicochemical methods were employed: optical and electron microscopy, viscometry, and activity determination; as well as computer and mathematical modelling; and physical and mechanical testing.

Results. The paper outlines directions for the development of research methodology based on a systems approach, characterized by the application of a fractal cluster model, to establish quantitative indicators at various scales and stages of structure formation. A structural-phenomenological analysis of dispersed systems and composites has made it possible to refine and supplement our understanding of the mechanism of their structure formation. Quantitative relationships have been established between fractal-cluster processes at the micro-level and properties, taking into account the dispersion, nature and surface characteristics of the mineral components in cement composites. Based on a method for investigating structure formation at the meso- and macro-levels, which relies on geometric modelling of close-packed structures, the particle size distribution of aggregates has been adjusted to achieve a denser concrete structure.

Conclusions. This research methodology expands the scope for controlling the formation of structures and predicting the resulting structures of cement composites. Based on systematic studies ranging from the micro- to the macro-level, involving an assessment of the effective-ness of mineral components in organo-mineral additives, as well as the optimization of the particle size distribution of fillers, cement concretes with improved physical and mechanical properties have been produced.

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