Quantitative comparison of real and CEMHYD3D model microstructures using correlation functions

A quantitative comparison of real and computer-generated (model) cement paste microstructures based on the analysis of three-dimensional image sets is presented. In addition to a visual presentation of extracted two-dimensional images, the comparison is based on the calculation of the normalized two-point correlation function for a variety of phases including unhydrated cement, hydration products, and capillary porosity. A favorable comparison is observed between model and real microstructures for both the two-dimensional images and the computed correlation functions. Several interesting observations from the correlation analysis are introduced and discussed. This analysis provides one further validation of the use of microstructure models to predict the microstructure and properties of cement-based materials.