Thermal decomposition study of crystalline limestone using P-wave velocity

A high-calcium limestone was calcined in order to study its thermal decomposition using P-wave velocity. The onset of calcination is at approximately 750 °C, while its completion according to the size of the cubic specimens is noted between 1000 and 1150 °C. We found that P-wave velocities are a very good index for the study and estimation of calcination. P-wave velocity decreases due to a temperature rise from 650 to 1150 °C for the cubic specimens of 4, 6 and 8 cm mean edge, while for 1 and 2 cm cubic specimens mixed behavior is observed, with a considerable increase in velocities at calcination temperature higher than 1050 °C.