Numerical simulation of model cement hydration using level set based method

Microstructural modelling that captures realistic features plays a key role in advancing our knowledge of concrete properties. This paper proposes a computer model based on the level set method to simulate the phase transformation during cement hydration. The model uses the level set function to reconstruct a realistic microstructure of the cement paste, specifically the fibrous form of C-S-H. The dissolution of binder phases as well as the formation of product phases such as inner and outer C-S-H, and portlandite including reaction kinetics are simultaneously reproduced. This allows the quantification of the volumetric phase changes, including chemical shrinkage as air voids. Variation of model parameters allows the investigation of geometrical interactions between phases, such as binder phases and hydrated products. The comparison between two-dimensional simulation and experimental data demonstrates that the level set based model is a promising method for modelling the microstructural evolution during cement hydration.