The influence of admixed micelles on the microstructural properties and global performance of cement-based materials

In this study, the influence of the admixed micelles (poly(ethylene oxide)-block-polystyrene micelles) on the microstructure and hydration rate of cement paste and more global performance of mortar were investigated. In cement paste, the cement hydration rate was only slightly influenced by the admixed micelles; on the other hand, the micelles lead to a reduced porosity and a denser matrix. The nano indentation combined with MIP and microstrutural analyses proves that the admixed micelles lead to a more uniform distribution of hydration products. In mortar, the compressive strength of the micelle-containing mortar was almost unaffected; the coefficient of water permeability was 3 orders of magnitude lower for the micelle-containing specimens, compared to the control (micelle-free) specimens. All experimental results indicate that the micelles act as nucleation sites for the formation of new hydration products and possibly induce defloculation of un-hydrated cement particles, resulting in a more uniform and homogeneous cement matrix.