Thermodynamic Modelling: a tool to understand hydrated cements by Prof. Barbara Lothenbach

Speaker: Professor Barbara Lothenbach, Group Leader Cement Chemistry and Thermodynamics, Concrete & Asphalt Laboratory, Empa, Switzerland Host: Prof. Karen Scrivener, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland Title: Thermodynamic modelling: a tool to understand hydrated cements Thermodynamic modelling has emerged in the last decades as a versatile tool to investigate and calculate the effect of cement composition on hydrate assemblages for Portland, calcium sulfoaluminate, calcium aluminate, alkali activated and blended cements. Thermodynamic modelling can not only predict the composition and volume of completely hydrated cements but also the phase changes occurring depending on hydration time, the composition of the pore solution or the heat of hydration. The presentation will also highlight different options available to make such calculations. ABOUT RILEM The mission of RILEM is to advance scientific knowledge related to construction materials, systems and structures and to encourage transfer and application of this knowledge world-wide. This mission is achieved through collaboration of leading experts in construction practice and science including academics, researchers, testing laboratories and authorities.