The influence of homogeneity of chemical and mineralogical composition of raw mixes on strength properties of Portland clinker

Abstract

Factors affecting the clinker strength are of great interest. The implementation of the dry process attracts attention to the homogeneity of the chemical and mineralogical composition of raw mixes.Purpose: One of the main factors affecting the clinker hydraulic activity is the homogeneity of its chemical and mineralogical compositions. The aim of this work is to study clinkers prepared by different production methods in furnaces using wet and dry processes.Methodology: X-ray fluorescence analysis of chemical composition of mixes; X-ray powder diffraction analysis of clinker mineralogical composition; petrographic analysis of clinker microstructure;Research findings: The clinker structure obtained in drying furnaces is glomeroblastic. Minerals mostly generate clusters alternating with each other. Clinker crystallization is mediumcrystalline, unequigranular. Alite and belite can form both individual grains and aggregates.Research findings: The chemical composition heterogeneity of raw mixes directly affects the clinker mineralogical composition of microstructure, that has a significant impact on its hydraulic activity.