Effect of Supernatant from Cement Suspension with High Water-to-Cement Ratio on Early Hydration and Performance of Cement Paste

Nanomaterials have been extensively researched as new concrete admixtures capable of enhancing properties through filler and chemical reaction effects. However, their potential remains largely untapped due to challenges in dispersion and high costs. This study explored using cement suspension as a mixing water, considering the suspension contained certain nano-scaled particles. Suspensions were prepared via hydrolysis reaction by exposing cement to a water solution at a ratio of c/w 1:10. The earlier compressive strength results indicated the ultra-fine particles from the suspension penetrated cement hydration pores to provide a dense hydration structure. Their nucleation and chemical activity also accelerated cement hydration. Moreover, compound characterization, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was performed to unravel the mechanism in terms of phase formation and microstructure.