Hard X-ray nanotomography of amorphous aluminosilicate cements

Nanotomographic reconstruction of a sample of low-CO2 “geopolymer” cement provides the first three-dimensional view of the pore structure of the aluminosilicate geopolymer gel, as well as evidence for direct binding of geopolymer gel onto unreacted fly ash precursor particles. This is central to understanding and optimizing the durability of concretes made using this new class of binder, and demonstrates the value of nanotomography in providing a three-dimensional view of nanoporous inorganic materials.

Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (105 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Hard X-ray nanotomographic reconstruction of an aluminosilicate ‘geopolymer’ gel shows the nanoporous nature of the gel.
► Geopolymer gel binds directly to the surface of a partially reacted fly ash particle.
► Visualization of the pore network confirms the existence of an ink-bottle effect which compromises gas sorption porosimetry in these gels.