Effect of the MCM-41 mesoporous silica on the microstructure and performance of cement matrix

The paper describes the results of research on the influence of the MCM-41 mesoporous silica on the selected properties of cement matrix. The MCM-41 used in the study was produced from waste solution after production of synthetic ash zeolites, which made the material much cheaper than its commercial counterparts. Mechano-physical properties were evaluated and the microstructure was analyzed by XRF, XRD, SEM-EDS, and nitrogen adsorption/desorption tests. The most beneficial content of the MCM-41 was found to be between 0.5 and 1%. It was noticed that the excess of active silica causes disturbances in the proper hydration process, which was schematically modeled. No studies have been reported in the literature so far which would be devoted to the assessment of the influence of the MCM-41 on the properties of the cement matrix, and the research conducted indicated a very high application potential of this additive.