SEDL / STP / STP1215-EB / STP12646S

Applications of Scanning Electron Microscopy in Cement and Concrete Petrography

Stutzman, PE
Physical Scientist, Building and Fire Research Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD

Pages: 17    Published: Jan 1994

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Abstract

Due to its high resolution and analytic capabilities, scanning electron microscopy with image analysis provides several advantages in cement and concrete petrography. When combined with computer-based image analysis, scanning electron microscopy generates quantifiable images using its imaging capabilities of phase composition, its ability to image imaging element spatial distribution, and its chemical analysis capabilities. Applications of scanning electron microscopy in petrography of cementitious materials is illustrated by analyses of clinker, cement, and concrete microstructures, and in the characterization of concretes damaged by alkali-silica and sulfate attack.