Quantitative phase analysis of hydraulic limes using the Rietveld method

Quantitative phase analyses of three commercial samples of hydraulic limes have been performed using the Rietveld method. Although the Rietveld method has been already applied to cement analysis, we report here the first application to different classes of hydraulic binders, such as hydraulic limes (HL) and natural hydraulic limes (NHL). Unlike HL, that are simple diluted cement, NHL are specific product of great interest for its application in building restoration and conservation.Samples were also characterized by laser granulometry and chemical analysis. Thermogravimetric analysis/Differential Scanning Calorimetry (TG/DSC) and calcimetric analyses were conducted to compare the results of such well-established techniques with those obtained with the Rietveld method. Taking advantage of the Rietveld method with the addition of an internal standard, the phase fraction of all the crystalline phases as well as the amorphous component, have been accurately determined. This technique offers a valid support for the characterization of hydraulic limes in the light of the EN classification of such industrial products.